Asean's blue economy ambitions amid South China Sea tensions

[WORLD] Efforts to expand Southeast Asia’s blue economy—particularly in the vital fisheries sector—will press ahead despite ongoing tensions in the South China Sea, a senior ASEAN official has stated. The assurance comes amid concerns from analysts that persistent maritime disputes with China could undermine the region’s economic growth and environmental goals.

The blue economy, which centers on sustainable ocean-based economic activities, has been gaining momentum globally as nations tap into the potential of their marine resources. For Southeast Asia, home to vast coastlines and diverse marine ecosystems, this sector is seen as key to achieving sustainable development and broadening economic opportunities. Fisheries, in particular, are central to the region’s food security and livelihoods.

Satvinder Singh, Deputy Secretary-General of the ASEAN Economic Community, emphasized that territorial disputes involving countries such as the Philippines and Vietnam would not stall the bloc’s ambitions to grow the sector. This effort is part of a wider strategy aimed at positioning ASEAN as the world’s fourth-largest economy by 2045.

Recent developments in the South China Sea have heightened worries among environmental groups and policymakers, as overlapping territorial claims and an escalating military presence raise the risk of disrupting fishing operations and conservation initiatives. Nevertheless, ASEAN leaders remain focused on advancing regional cooperation and dialogue to address such issues peacefully.

“Fisheries are one of the key sectors in the blue economy for the region,” Singh told reporters during a Friday briefing on the ASEAN Community Vision 2045 and the bloc’s upcoming economic roadmap. “Those specific incidents that happen in the South China Sea are not going to stop the industry from progressing.”

To bolster the fisheries sector, ASEAN is rolling out modernization and sustainability programs. These include the integration of cutting-edge fishing technologies, enhanced fisheries governance, and the promotion of environmentally conscious aquaculture practices. The initiatives aim to boost productivity while safeguarding marine ecosystems for future generations.

Beyond technology, ASEAN is also prioritizing education and training for local fishing communities. By equipping fishers with updated skills and knowledge, the bloc seeks to build a more adaptable workforce capable of confronting climate change and resource depletion.

International collaboration remains another cornerstone of ASEAN’s blue economy agenda. Through partnerships with global institutions and other maritime nations, the region is gaining access to best practices, technical expertise, and funding necessary to sustain long-term progress in its fisheries.

Despite the geopolitical uncertainties in the South China Sea, ASEAN’s steadfast pursuit of its blue economy goals reflects a broader regional commitment to innovation, sustainability, and resilience. With a strong focus on collaboration and forward-looking policies, Southeast Asia is charting a path toward becoming a global leader in sustainable ocean development—offering a potential blueprint for other regions navigating similar maritime challenges.