China's maritime economy grows 7.9 pct last year

Chinese maritime economy grew by 7.9 percent last year, according to official figures.

While that made up 9.6 percent of the National GDP, CRI's Shen Chengcheng explains why that still doesn't meet official expectations.

There's no doubting the economic growth from the figures, which show the total maritime output actually hit the 5 Trillion Yuan mark.

However, the State Oceanic Administration - or the SOA's Spokesperson, Shi Qingfeng, says the growth wasn't as big as expected.

"Due to the fluctuation of the oil prices and the slowdown of domestic economic growth, off-shore oil and gas production has seen negative growth. The negative growth also because of measures designed to control production capacity."

With the sea salt as well as shipping industries also registering a negative growth, SOA director Yu Jian, says the territorial disputes in the East and South China Sea have also had an effect here.

"The situation in the South China Sea has certainly impacted our fishery. Relevant departments are working on new ways to boost the development of the fishing industry. One of the goals is to increase the role technology plays in fishing and fish farming. The development of fishing industry can help us safeguard our maritime rights as well."

It's not just the maritime economy causing concern though.

Latest SOA figures are also showing China's sea level rose by an average 2.9 millimetres over the past 3 decades, leading to more marine disasters, including storm surge, salt tide and coastal erosion.

And last year, the levels hit the roof, with the East China Sea rising by 66 Millimetres - the biggest year on year jump.

The direct economic losses caused by marine disasters last year alone, amounted to 15 billion yuan, as well as 68 casualties.