Ocean economy

The local government is looking to extend the oceanic industrial chain and achieve well-structured oceanic industrial clusters, and it is accelerating the building of oceanic industrial parks and pushing forward the oceanic industry's development.

As a key port in South China and a gateway in the country's strategy for South China Sea, Zhanjiang is embracing a rapidly emerging ocean economy, driven by maritime industries, port logistics and sea-related tourism.

The State Oceanic Administration and Guangdong government have provided their support for Zhanjiang to become a model national ocean economy city.

Last year, China Ocean Economy Expo was held in the city. The expo showcased how the marine economy will play an important role in turning the country into a maritime power and pushing forward the initiative of the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road, said Zhang Hongsheng, deputy director of State Oceanic Administration, at the expo opening ceremony.

Wang said Zhanjiang's ocean economy has bright prospects and the city can benefit from the country's bid to enhance its marine scientific and technological level to become a maritime power in the world.

"We will take opportunities from the country's initiative of developing marine economy to make big strides in development," the mayor said.