Advancing China's Sustainable Blue Economy 2025

285.1 SBE definitions and principles It is recommended that under the current policy framework, the Chinese government adopt a path that maintains policy continuity while promoting strategic upgrades by gradually introducing the concept of a “sustainable blue economy” in its policy framework. The following actions can be prioritized: 1) Integration into strategic policy planning Investigate and adopt SBE definitions and principles in China in the 15th FYP and develop policy drivers around it, including integrated governance across all levels, SBE transition planning and MSP. The agenda should be complementary to protecting, restoring and sustainably managing marine and coastal ecosystems as the bedrock of an SBE and therefore benefiting long-term social, economic and environmental resilience. 2) Establish a cross-ministerial task force Form an SBE task force comprising the MNR, the MEE, the Ministry of Science and Technology, and the National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC). This task force would design collaboration pathways, internally formulate the “Action Plan for Sustainable Blue Economy Development” and coordinate preliminary policy work.3) Develop and promote local pilot models Pioneer cities such as Xiamen and Shenzhen can be leveraged to establish “SBE Demonstration Zones.” These zones can facilitate pilot cooperation with developed countries on standards and management models related to the SBE, such as adopting SBE principles in strategic policy planning, MSP, ocean accounting and blue finance. These trials of strengthening sustainable economic development in the pilot cities that protects and enhances natural capital, leverages clean technologies and circular economy, and provides social and economic benefits for generations, can form a basis for future scaling to other coastal regions. 4) International collaboration for SBE development China should lead global efforts in managing ocean resources and advocate for the worldwide adoption of the SBE. International collaboration is crucial for funding the transition to more sustainable ocean use, and particular public goods for this transition (e.g. development and implementation of conservation rules, cleanups, etc.). Integrating the agendas of SBE, climate actions and biodiversity conservation in partnership with the global community is vital to meet the targets outlined in the Paris Agreement, the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) and Agenda 2030. In the ongoing debate on deep seabed mining, China should consider a precautionary approach to protect fragile marine ecosystems.5. Recommendations Patrick Yeung