South Korea strengthens maritime supply chain and eco-friendly fuel regulations

South Korea is advancing strategic measures to secure its maritime and economic supply chains. The Korea Maritime Institute (KMI), in collaboration with the National Research Council for Economics, Humanities and Social Sciences, recently held a Global Supply Chain Crisis Response Forum in Busan. Experts discussed integrated approaches to mitigate risks in economic security, maritime and aviation logistics, and critical mineral supplies, emphasizing the need for proactive, cross-sectoral coordination.

Simultaneously, the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries has implemented regulatory changes to support the transition to eco-friendly maritime fuels. An amendment to the Enforcement Decree of the Port Transport Business Act has established a new classification for eco-friendly ship fuel supply businesses. To address the current shortage of specialized vessels, the government will temporarily allow existing cargo ships to be used for supplying methanol until 2028 and ammonia until 2030, while LNG carriers may continue use without specific time limits. These measures aim to build a stable supply infrastructure as the industry shifts toward carbon-neutral fuels.