Lloyd’s Register (LR), EXMAR, and the Belgian Federal Public Service (FPS) for Mobility and Transport have jointly developed interim guidelines that support the safe use of ammonia cargo as fuel on gas carriers.
The Belgian FPS led the effort, supported by LR and EXMAR. More than two years ago, they secured an amendment to the IGC Code, removing rules that had prevented gas carriers from consuming ammonia cargo as fuel. The three partners drafted the initial version of the new Interim Guidelines and submitted it to the IMO Correspondence Group. Member States then worked together to refine the document and reach consensus.
The IMO’s Sub-Committee on the Carriage of Cargoes and Containers (CCC 11) finalised the guidelines. Formal approval is expected at MSC 111 in May 2026.
Ammonia has long been viewed as a potential zero-carbon fuel. But under the previous IGC Code, gas carriers could not use ammonia cargo as fuel. The new guidelines change that. They provide a recognised regulatory pathway and give shipowners and operators the confidence to advance ammonia-fuelled vessel designs.
Claudene Sharp-Patel, Global Technical Director at LR, said: “This collaboration shows what’s possible when industry leaders, regulators and technical experts work together. LR has supported ammonia-as-fuel projects from concept to realisation. Our experience helps clients decarbonise their fleets. This work strengthens our role as a trusted advisor in the maritime energy transition.”
Kristof Coppé, Director of Fleet Operations and Technical Business Development at EXMAR, said: “EXMAR began its ammonia-fuel journey in 2021 when we received Approval in Principle from LR for an ammonia-fuelled mid-size gas carrier. Using our own cargo as fuel has always been a strategic focus. We proved this earlier with LPG propulsion. Ammonia is the next step, cutting direct CO₂ emissions by up to 90 percent. Close collaboration with LR and FPS Mobility has been essential, especially on the regulatory side.”
Nathalie Deleuze, Maritime Expert for Alternative Fuels at FPS Mobility and Transport of Belgium, said: “Decarbonisation is a national priority. We support the shift to alternative fuels. By combining our IMO expertise with the technical knowledge of Belgian shipowners and LR, we are helping drive a cleaner future.”
