A broad package of amendments to core IMO treaties took effect on January 1, 2026, touching everything from dangerous goods to crew welfare. The 2024 edition of the International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code introduced stricter packaging and testing requirements for lithium batteries and tighter rules on charcoal and carbon cargoes, while updated STCW Code provisions require training aimed at preventing and responding to violence, harassment and sexual assault at sea.
Further changes affect fire and lifesaving equipment standards, reporting requirements and the carriage of hazardous cargo. Attention now turns to MEPC 84 in spring 2026, where the IMO is due to approve detailed implementation guidelines for its net-zero framework, with the regime expected to enter into force in 2027 — sixteen months after its formal adoption — as the organization works toward binding emissions targets for international shipping.
Source: SAFETY4SEA — https://safety4sea.com/imo-key-regulatory-updates-coming-into-force-in-january-2026/
