Beijing : China’s marine economy expanded steadily during the first half of 2025, with gross ocean production reaching 5.1 trillion yuan (about $708 billion), marking a 5.8% year-over-year increase, according to preliminary data released Friday by China’s Ministry of Natural Resources. The growth comes amid complex global economic conditions.
Approved maritime development areas increased 25.2% to 167,000 hectares, supporting projects worth 500 billion yuan (about $69 billion). Offshore crude oil production rose 2.3%, while natural gas output jumped 16.9%.
The offshore wind power sector showed dramatic expansion, with new grid-connected capacity surging 199.4% and power generation growing 2.2%. Domestic aquatic production increased 4.8%.
China’s shipbuilding sector maintained its global leadership position, accounting for 64% of new orders by compensated gross tonnage, 47.2% of global completions and 57.6% of order backlog, according to ministry data. Marine tourism grew 8%, with cruise passenger volume up 40.1%. Marine transport volumes increased 5.2%, with freight turnover rising 6.9%.
