International Chamber of Shipping secretary-general Thomas Kazakos has warned that international maritime regulations are weakening amid geopolitical conflicts, reported London's S&P Global.

Mr. Kazakos stated that shipping companies face growing difficulties as the enforcement of international laws declines. He noted that national and regional governments are increasingly targeting ships with tariffs, port fees, and sanctions, undermining global frameworks.

The ICS, representing more than 80 percent of the world's merchant fleet, reiterated its opposition to tolls and transit fees in the Strait of Hormuz. Mr. Kazakos emphasized that such measures threaten freedom of navigation and could encourage similar actions elsewhere.

Iran introduced tolls for Hormuz transits after its war with the US began on February 28, before suspending them under a preliminary peace deal. The country has floated the idea of charging service fees after a 60-day truce.

Mr. Kazakos asserted that the ICS remains committed to one global framework under the International Maritime Organization. He warned that the erosion of international standards would harm the industry's ability to carry more than 90 percent of world trade.

The ICS has also been active in decarbonization talks. It supports the IMO's Net-Zero Framework, which aims to cut greenhouse gas emissions from shipping by 20-30 percent by 2030, 70-80 percent by 2040, and achieve net-zero by 2050.

While some ICS members back the framework, others have raised concerns over green fuel supply. Mr. Kazakos mentioned that the organization is consensus-based and expects members to form a uniform position through continued discussion.