In South Korea, the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries is mobilizing a national strategy to shape international standards for ammonia-fueled ships, launching its 2026 public-private working group in Seongnam ahead of key talks at the International Maritime Organization. The initiative targets both propulsion safety and wastewater discharge, as Korea moves to position its shipbuilders and technology providers at the forefront of a growing global market.
With just five ammonia-fueled ships expected this year but over 50 forecast by 2029, and hundreds more ammonia-ready vessels in planning, Korean officials aim to pre-empt regulatory gaps. The working group includes Korean Register, KTR, and major shipyards, and has been developing technical guidance on safe operation and ammonia detoxification, including onboard wastewater management.
Last December, Korea submitted draft standards to the IMO and will present its research at the 13th session of the Pollution Prevention and Response subcommittee. A Korean-led expert session will propose discharge protocols and fuel handling guidance. Officials say early action will allow Korean rules to become global benchmarks, anchoring domestic technology in future propulsion standards as ammonia gains momentum as a carbon-free marine fuel.
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Category: Sustainable Marine Fuels
