Xiamen in East China's Fujian province already boasts a strong foundation in ocean industry with its diverse marine species, thriving coastal tourism and abundant port resources. [Photo/VCG]

The ocean industry in Xiamen, East China's Fujian province is expected to generate 269.7 billion yuan ($38.15 billion) in 2025, according to Wu Guoliang, deputy director of the Xiamen Municipal Bureau of Ocean Development, on Oct 24.

The figure is expected to take up no less than 29 percent of the total GDP in the city by 2025, added Wu.

Statistics from the bureau showed that in the first half of this year, the gross output of the ocean industry in the city stood at 125.4 billion, a year-on-year increase of 10 percent.

Wu said that the ocean has the potential to greatly boost Xiamen's economic development and ocean economy will become a new driver of economic growth in the city.

Xiamen already boasts a strong foundation in the ocean industry, with its diverse marine species, thriving coastal tourism and abundant port resources.

Wu revealed that in the future, Xiamen will ramp up efforts to develop marine pharmaceutical and product industries and high-end marine equipment manufacturing, and turn itself into a leader in ocean industry information services.

In addition, the city will also establish the Xiamen Southern Marine Research Center and Fujian Ocean University to enhance cooperation with universities and institutes involved in maritime affairs.