The European Union’s Emissions Trading Scheme (Maritime ETS) is generating a profound transformation in the Spanish maritime sector.

As we move into 2025, ports and shipping lines face new challenges and opportunities that are redefining the shipping landscape in our country.

The new reality of maritime ETS

The ETS, designed to regulate greenhouse gas emissions, is having a significant impact on the Spanish maritime industry.

Since the beginning of 2024, shipping companies have had to purchase emission rights for 40% of their carbon footprint, a percentage that will increase to 70% this year and reach 100% in 2026.

This regulation affects ships over 5,000 tons operating in European ports, obliging them to report annually on their carbon footprint.

Intra-EU routes are fully subject to the ETS, while international routes cover only 50% of their emissions.

Economic impact on the sector

Cost overruns and competitiveness

The new emissions regime is raising significant concerns about operating costs.

According to estimates by Ocean Capital Partners (OCP), as of 2026, when the ETS reaches 100% coverage, ships operating in Spanish ports will face a cost overrun of approximately 142 million euros.

This cost increase could have a domino effect:

• Impact on logistics operators
• Possible price increase for end consumers
• Challenges to the competitiveness of Spanish maritime trade

Comparison with current port fees

To put the economic impact in perspective, it is useful to compare the ETS cost overrun with current port charges:

This comparison shows that the ETS cost overrun represents a significant financial burden for the industry, comparable to existing port charges.

Challenges for Spanish ports

Risk of traffic leakage

One of the biggest challenges facing Spanish ports is the risk of losing traffic to non-EU enclaves.

Key ports such as Algeciras, Valencia or Barcelona could see their volume of operations reduced as shipping lines may choose to divert their routes to ports not subject to ETS regulations, such as those in Morocco, Algeria or Egypt.

Competition with non-European ports

There are already worrying trends:

• Nearby non-European ports increased their operating capacity by 3% in 2024.
• European ports experienced a 2% loss in the same period.

This situation could weaken European logistics chains and expose the region to greater risks of illegal activities, such as smuggling.

Mitigation measures and proposals

To counter these challenges, a number of measures have been proposed:

1. Transshipment port” mechanism:

The European Commission has implemented this concept to consider certain calls in non-EU ports as “transparent” in the ETS system.

2. Review of the ETS system:

It is proposed to incorporate tools to analyze future risks, such as route detour or increased traffic in non-European ports.

3. Expansion of the list of ports at risk:

Identify and monitor ports with high potential to attract diverted traffic.

4. Contingency plan:

Design, before June 2025, an action plan to activate immediate measures if the anticipated threats materialize.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How will the ETS affect shipping prices?
   The additional costs are likely to be passed along the supply chain, which could result in higher prices for end consumers.
2. What can Spanish ports do to maintain their competitiveness?
   Ports can invest in cleaner technologies, improve their operational efficiency and collaborate with authorities to implement measures to mitigate the impact of ETS.
3. How will the ETS affect international shipping routes?
   International routes could undergo changes, with possible detour to non-European ports to minimize costs associated with the ETS.

The maritime ETS represents a significant challenge for Spanish ports and shipping companies, with far-reaching economic and logistical implications.

While the goal of reducing emissions is laudable, it is crucial to strike a balance between environmental sustainability and economic competitiveness.

The Spanish shipping industry is at a turning point, and its ability to adapt to these new regulations will largely determine its future in the global shipping landscape.