A seminar on sustainable sea economic development took place in Nha Trang city in central Khanh Hoa province, gathering 100 experts and managers in Vietnam and abroad.

As heard during the seminar, the total value of the maritime sector – generated primarily through oil and gas, tourism, shipping and aquaculture – accounted for up to 22 percent of the national GDP in Vietnam. The potential of other industries, such as ship building and oil processing, has yet to be fully tapped.

Vietnam’s sea exploitation has faced several limitations with its capacity equal to only one seventh of the Republic of Korea and one ninety-fourth of Japan.

Nguyen Chu Hoi, former General Director of the Vietnam Administration of Seas and Islands , said advanced science and technology is the driving force behind developing the sea economy.

The government ought to encourage international cooperation in the field, especially in green technology transfer, Hoi clarified.

According to Dr Tran Anh Tuan from the Ministry of Planning and Investment, marine potential analysis and management reforms are necessary for the sector’s long-term growth.

Participating experts highlighted sustainable development and aquatic reproduction.

The Khanh Hoa People’s Committee and the US Boston international forum co-organised the seminar.-VNA