GlossaryEN1 min readUpdated: Jun 26, 2026

Sulfur emissions limits in maritime transport

Sulfur emissions limits in maritime transport set internationally binding caps on the sulfur content of marine fuels, governed by MARPOL Annex VI under the International Maritime Organization (IMO).

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Last updated: 26 June 2026Published: 22 November 2025

Source: https://www.imo.org/en/OurWork/Environment/Pages/Sulphur-oxides-(SOx)-–-Regulation-14.aspx

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Definition & Explanation

Sulfur emissions limits in maritime transport set internationally binding caps on the sulfur content of marine fuels, governed by MARPOL Annex VI under the International Maritime Organization (IMO). A global cap of 0.5% sulfur content applies to marine fuel; within designated Emission Control Areas (ECAs)—including the North Sea, Baltic Sea, and parts of the North American coast—the limit tightens to 0.1%. Shipping lines meet these requirements by using Very Low Sulphur Fuel Oil (VLSFO), fitting exhaust gas cleaning systems (scrubbers), or switching to alternative fuels such as LNG. Port state control authorities enforce compliance through fuel sampling and exhaust gas measurements; violations can result in substantial fines and port bans. For freight forwarders and shippers, the limits matter indirectly: bunker surcharges (Bunker Adjustment Factor, BAF) are directly tied to the type and cost of fuel a carrier uses.