As global demand for renewable hydrogen increases, in line with efforts to meet decarbonisation targets, regions with limited production capacity will consider importing renewable hydrogen. Facilitating global hydrogen trade will enable the export of clean hydrogen to meet these demands, accelerating hydrogen uptake and reducing costs. To support international trade corridors, it will also be essential to establish global standards for hydrogen, implement robust tradable certification systems and develop cross-border infrastructure. The recently announced International Hydrogen Trade Forum will play a pivotal role in facilitating constructive discussions and accelerating collective action between governments on the international hydrogen market.

Hydrogen's significance in the clean energy transition relies on innovation, driving cost reductions and enhanced performance in both new and existing technologies. Innovation is also crucial to strengthen energy security and narrow the global decarbonisation divide. While technology development is progressing throughout the hydrogen value chain, some key technologies, especially in end-uses, are not yet commercial. Moreover, innovation and deployment of hydrogen technologies will be essential in facilitating hydrogen trade.

The urgency of addressing climate change has brought hydrogen into the policy spotlight. Scaling up low-carbon hydrogen production and deployment necessitates immediate and substantial policy interventions including stronger mandates, demand-side measures and higher carbon prices. Governments are already working with diverse stakeholders to identify effective policies to underpin hydrogen’s role in the clean energy transition. Policy frameworks like the UAE's National Hydrogen Strategy, will play a vital role in achieving the country’s net-zero emissions goal by 2050 while accelerating the global hydrogen economy.

Creating a hydrogen economy aligned with climate goals requires cross-sector collaboration and policy backing. Reducing costs and risks for investors, incentivising low-carbon hydrogen production and advancing technology and infrastructure are vital. Policymakers can de-risk investments by implementing long-term carbon pricing, contracts for difference and setting clear goals in hydrogen roadmaps, including quantitative supply and demand targets.

Ensuring sustainable hydrogen supply chains is vital for integrating hydrogen into future energy systems. This requires assessing infrastructure, innovative manufacturing and distribution network connectivity to manage risks. Early capital investment is necessary to gain manufacturing experience and optimise processes. Employing a lifecycle assessment approach and stringent sustainability criteria is essential to ensure long-term resilience, circularity and sustainability of hydrogen supply chains, particularly in large-scale production and support the transition to a hydrogen economy.