Answer
The primary international statutory authority governing the use of cargo as fuel is the IMO through Chapter 16 ("Use of Cargo as Fuel") of the IGC Code (International Code for the Construction and Equipment of Ships Carrying Liquefied Gases in Bulk), made mandatory under SOLAS Chapter VII.“The latest amendment to IGC Chapter 16 is MSC.566(109), in force from 1 July 2026. It amends paragraph 16.9.2 and permits certain toxic cargoes carried in Type 2G/2PG gas carriers to be used as fuel, subject to Administration approval and demonstration of an equivalent level of safety to methane. Type 1G cargoes are still not permitted to be used as fuel.”
This amendment is particularly important for the future use of ammonia cargo as fuel on gas carriers. IMO has also been developing specific guidelines for the use of ammonia cargo as fuel.