12/10/2025
In a powerful endorsement of its global maritime influence, Italy has been re-elected to the prestigious Category A of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council, securing one of the highest vote totals worldwide.
December 1, 2025 – At the 34th IMO Assembly in London, member states delivered a resounding vote of confidence in Italy’s role in shaping the future of international shipping. Italy received 155 votes, representing a staggering 91.7% of the 169 eligible member states. This result matches the vote count for China, making Italy one of the most supported nations in the entire election.
The re-election solidifies Italy’s position for another two-year term among the ten nations in Category A, reserved for states with the largest interest in providing international shipping services. This elite group includes China, South Korea, Greece, the United Kingdom, Japan, Panama, the United States, Norway, and Liberia.
A Recognition of Proven Leadership
The overwhelming support is seen as a direct acknowledgment of Italy’s sustained commitment to the IMO’s mission. It highlights the country’s active contributions to developing crucial international regulations—from enhancing safety at sea and protecting the marine environment to establishing fair technical standards for global navigation.
This success is also attributed to the diligent work of Italy’s Permanent Mission to the IMO, which has focused on expanding multilateral cooperation and forging strategic partnerships across the international maritime community over the past two years.
Official Reaction: A Win for the “Blue Economy”
Edoardo Rixi, Italy’s Deputy Minister for Infrastructure and Transport, hailed the result as a milestone for the nation’s maritime sector.
“Italy has once again been the most-voted nation in the IMO Council, receiving 155 votes, on par with China,” stated Deputy Minister Rixi. “This outcome highlights our central role in the maritime industry, in international cooperation, in navigational safety, and in safeguarding the marine environment. The re-election reinforces Italy’s position as a leader in promoting the blue economy.”
The Path Forward
With its renewed mandate, Italy is poised to continue its influential role within the IMO Council. The country is expected to be at the forefront of debates and decisions on some of the most pressing issues facing global shipping, including the industry’s decarbonization, digital transformation, and the integration of new technologies—all while ensuring the highest standards of safety and environmental stewardship.
This decisive re-election sends a clear message: Italy remains an indispensable and respected voice in charting the course for a safer, more efficient, and more sustainable maritime future.