Article: Legal challenges and regulatory improvements regarding ammonia as an alternative marine fuel or cargo Journal: International Journal of Shipping and Transport Logistics (IJSTL) 2026 Vol.22 No.5 pp.1 - 27 Abstract: This study examines the regulatory challenges concerning ammonia-fuelled ships and the transportation of ammonia as cargo. It identifies gaps in the international safety standards and civil liability regimes for ammonia's dual role as fuel and cargo. The research highlights the need for revisions to the IGF and IGC codes to establish clear regulatory standards for ammonia-fuelled ships. It also proposes amendments to the HNS Convention to include ammonia-fuelled ships within its scope, to address the current lack of a comprehensive civil liability framework. The study emphasises the need to enhance compliance measures, train crew, and establish port safety procedures. In proposing these improvements, the study aims to provide a foundation for future discussions on revising international regulations related to alternative marine fuels, particularly ammonia. Such revisions would support the shipping industry's transition towards decarbonisation, while ensuring safety and legal predictability. Inderscience Publishers - linking academia, business and industry through research

Title: Legal challenges and regulatory improvements regarding ammonia as an alternative marine fuel or cargo

Authors: Junghwan Choi; Sangseop Lim

Addresses: Law School, Dalian Maritime University, China ' Division of Navigation Convergence Studies, Korea Maritime and Ocean University, 727 Taejong-ro Yeondo-gu, Busan, South Korea

Abstract: This study examines the regulatory challenges concerning ammonia-fuelled ships and the transportation of ammonia as cargo. It identifies gaps in the international safety standards and civil liability regimes for ammonia's dual role as fuel and cargo. The research highlights the need for revisions to the IGF and IGC codes to establish clear regulatory standards for ammonia-fuelled ships. It also proposes amendments to the HNS Convention to include ammonia-fuelled ships within its scope, to address the current lack of a comprehensive civil liability framework. The study emphasises the need to enhance compliance measures, train crew, and establish port safety procedures. In proposing these improvements, the study aims to provide a foundation for future discussions on revising international regulations related to alternative marine fuels, particularly ammonia. Such revisions would support the shipping industry's transition towards decarbonisation, while ensuring safety and legal predictability.

Keywords: decarbonisation; ammonia-fuelled ships; IGF Code; ICG Code; HNS Convention.

DOI: 10.1504/IJSTL.2026.151317

International Journal of Shipping and Transport Logistics, 2026 Vol.22 No.5, pp.1 - 27

Received: 09 Apr 2025
Accepted: 10 Dec 2025
Published online: 22 Jan 2026 *

Title: Legal challenges and regulatory improvements regarding ammonia as an alternative marine fuel or cargo

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