Marine Output, Shipbuilding and Tourism Boost China's Sea Sector

Growth in China's sea-based industries has remained steady through the first three quarters of the year, supported by stronger industrial structure and broad-based gains across energy, fisheries, shipbuilding, shipping and tourism.

Data from the Ministry of Natural Resources, released on October 28, shows that gross marine product reached 8.5 trillion yuan from January to September. That is 4.9 percent higher than the same period last year.

In energy, marine crude oil production grew 3.5 percent. The country also put its first 100-meter water depth oil and gas production expansion platform into formal operation.

The seafood sector remained dependable. Domestic aquatic product output increased 4.6 percent, while mariculture production rose 5.8 percent.

Resource planning moved forward as well. Some 219,000 hectares of new marine and island use areas were approved across the country, with more than 6.7 trillion yuan in associated investment.

The shipbuilding industry posted some of the sharpest gains. New orders surged 98.5 percent, finished vessels grew 35.0 percent, and the order backlog expanded 41.9 percent. China's position as a global leader in the sector remained intact.

Shipping activity also expanded. Coastal ports handled 1.6 percent more cargo, and container volumes climbed 4.7 percent.

Marine tourism continued its upward path with the formal launch of the Bohai Bay Golden Waterway Tourism Alliance and the debut of China's first weekend marine mini-vacation cruise product.