The 2026 Global Ocean Development Forum opened in Qingdao West Coast New Area, Shandong Province, China, on Sept. 17. Co-hosted by the People's Government of Shandong Province and the Ministry of Natural Resources, the event focused on sustainable ocean economy development.

Event Overview

Organized by Qingdao West Coast New Area, the forum carried the theme "From Blue to Future: Developing a Sustainable Ocean Economy, Building a Beautiful and Bountiful Ocean Together." The third edition of the forum included an opening ceremony, a main forum, an Ocean Civilization Dialogue, four parallel forums, and eight special events.

Key Discussions and Releases

The main forum addressed ocean economic development, scientific and technological innovation, AI-enabled innovation, and blue finance. Key releases included:

• Briefing on Global Ocean Economic Development 2026
• China Ocean Development Index Report 2026
• Global Ocean Environmental Monitoring Multi-Source Fusion Dataset

Additionally, a global initiative for marine public welfare action was launched under the UN Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development.

Parallel Forums and Special Events

Four parallel sub-forums focused on marine industries, marine science and technology, deep-sea development, and ocean governance. These sessions showcased more than 50 innovative achievements and exemplary cases. Eight special events covered policy discussions, academic exchanges, industry collaboration, talent development, international training, and public science outreach.

The Ocean Civilization Dialogue highlighted achievements in marine culture, port development, ecological conservation, heritage preservation, and culture and tourism.