Xiamen's world maritime week a boon for people's education and innovation

The ongoing 2020 World Ocean Week in Xiamen, which runs through Thursday, has reported great results in the promotion of marine technology innovation, industrial communication and cultural exchange.

More than 50 activities including five professional expos and a slew of inspiring forums have been held. The week-long event is expected to attract more than 300,000 participants, local officials said.

A commercialization fair for scientific and technological achievements in the marine field held from Nov 22-24 attracted attention from key industrial players.

More than 100 exhibitors from sectors including marine biopharmaceuticals and high-end equipment manufacturing brought their latest products and services to the trade fair.

Xiamen's ocean development bureau signed agreements to provide 120 million yuan ($18.24 million) in funding to support six marine projects.

First held in 2013, the trade fair focuses on promoting the commercialization of research results. It has become an important platform for companies to put their latest marine research findings into action.

Over the past seven expos, a total of 121 technological results were released and 124 projects obtained funding from the local ocean development bureau, Xiamen authorities said.

Zeng Dongsheng, director of Xiamen's ocean development bureau, said more than 900 companies signed up to take part in the five professional expos during the ocean week. That's almost three times more than the number for 2019.

Apart from the professional trade fair, marine cultural carnivals offered opportunities for attendees to learn more about ocean protection.

Xiatanwei Mangrove Park in Xiamen hosted a series of activities including a scientific-based fish stock enhancement program and a bird-painting event to give the public, especially children, a greater knowledge about ocean ecology.

An ocean-centered art show, an international festival and university's opening days were also held during the ocean week.

In 2020, more than 10 forums have taken place during ocean week. These have allowed global experts and businesses to discuss a broad range of topics, including sustainable ocean development and the latest trends in the seafood industry.

The annual World Ocean Week in Xiamen, first held in 2005, has become one of the most influential marine-centered events. It has attracted government officials from 127 countries and regions, and representatives from 18 international organizations over the past 15 years, local government officials said.