Solomon Islands shipping operators have been advised to brace for costly changes as the UN's International Maritime Organisation (IMO) advances its climate agenda. The warning came during a national seminar in Honiara, reported the Solomon Star.

Maritime experts and officials stressed the need to align domestic shipping policies with global regulations. While initial IMO measures target large international vessels, domestic fleets will also face future compliance requirements.

Michael Prehn, a maritime law specialist and long-time advisor to the Solomon Islands Maritime Authority (SIMA), said the transition to greener shipping is inevitable and potentially expensive. He noted that better regulation could ease the process.

Solomon Islands has played a key role in IMO climate talks for over eight years, including co-sponsoring a global carbon levy proposal aimed at reducing emissions and supporting Pacific Small Island Developing States.

SIMA's executive office manager Allen Kisiofea said the seminar was vital for local operators to understand the implications. He highlighted that although current IMO rules apply to ships above 5,000 gross tonnage, domestic fleets will eventually be affected.

Kisiofea added that smaller nations were once sidelined in IMO decisions, but persistent advocacy has strengthened the Pacific's voice in shaping global maritime policy.

Both speakers called for greater engagement between regulators and the local industry. Dr Prehn urged domestic operators to monitor international regulations closely to prepare for future requirements.