Sustainable development of marine economy in Halong city = Phát triển bền vững kinh tế biển thành phố Hạ Long

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VIETNAM NATIONAL UNIVERSITY, HANOI
INSTITUTE OF VIETNAMESE STUDIES AND DEVELOPMENT SCIENCES






NGUYEN NGOC PHUONG




SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT OF MARINE
ECONOMY IN HALONG CITY


Master's thesis
Major: Vietnamese studies





Ha Noi - 2012

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VIETNAM NATIONAL UNIVERSITY, HANOI
INSTITUTE OF VIETNAMESE STUDIES AND DEVELOPMENT SCIENCES





NGUYEN NGOC PHUONG




SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT OF MARINE
ECONOMY IN HALONG CITY


Master's thesis in Vietnamese studies
Code 60.31.60


Supervisor: Prof.Dr.Truong Quang Hai



Ha Noi - 2012

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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
INTRODUCTION 8
1. Reason selected theme 8
2. Literature review 9
3. Research objects, tasks and scopes of thesis 12
4. Methodologies 13
5. Research methods 15
6. The contribution of the thesis 16
7. The structure of the thesis 17
Chapter 1: GENERAL THEORY AND RESOURCES FOR MARINE
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT OF HALONG CITY 18
1.1. The general theory of marine economy and sustainable development of
marine economy 18
1.1.1. Marine economy 18
1.1.2. Specialization and the synthetic development of marine economy 21
1.1.3. Sustainable development of marine economy 22
1.2. Factors affecting the development of marine economy in Halong 24
1.2.1. Development trends of marine economy in the world, objectives and
strategic development of marine economy in Vietnam 24
1.2.2. The process of urbanization and industrialization in Ha Long 29
1.2.3. Policies of economic development and marine economy in Halong city 30
1.2.4. Other factors 32
1.3. Resources for marine economic development in Ha Long 32
1.3.1. Overviews on Ha Long city 32
1.3.2. Potentials of marine fishing and aquaculture 33
1.3.3. Natural tourism resources and humanities 35
1.3.4. Potentials development of marine transport 39
1.3.5. Other resources 40

Chapter 2: STATE OF DEVELOPMENT OF MARINE ECONOMY IN
HALONG CITY 44
2.1. State of socio-economic development in Halong city 44



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2.2. State of development of fisheries sector 46
2.2.1. Aquaculture 46
2.2.2. Seafood exploitation 52
2.2.3. Seafood processing 54
2.2.4. Fishery logistic services 55
2.2.5. Labour in the fisheries sector 57
2.3. State of coastal and marine tourism development 58
2.3.1. Current status of marine tourism resources exploitation 58
2.3.2. Current status of infrastructure, technical facilities and investment in
tourism 59
2.3.3. State of tourists and tourism revenue 61
2.3.4. Development status of tourism products 65
2.3.5. Labour in the tourism sector 70
2.4. Development situation of marine traffic- transport 70
2.4.1. Port systems 70
2.4.2. Traffic routes on the sea 74
2.4.3. Mechanics serve marine economy 75
2.5. Situation development of support services for marine economy 76
2.5.1. Bank and finance services 76
2.5.2. Maritime services, communication 77
2.6. Development situation of floating houses on the Halong Bay 79
2.6.1. The number of floating house and anchorage points 79
2.6.2. Changes, development trends of floating house 79

2.7. Effects of marine economic activities for natural resources and environment
at Halong city 80
2.8. General assessment on the marine economic development in Halong city
based on SWOT analysis 81
2.8.1. Strengths 81
2.8.2. Weaknesses 83
2.8.3. Opportunities 86
2.8.4. Challenges 86



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Chapter 3: ORIENTATION AND SOME SOLUTIONS TO PROMOTING
SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT OF MARINE ECONOMY IN HALONG
CITY TO 2020 89
3.1. Orientation for sustainable development of marine economy in Halong
city to 2020 89
3.1.1. Development perspectives and targets 89
3.1.2. Full exploitation of the special advantages of the sea area and coastal 90
3.1.3. Transforming Halong city into a dynamic marine economy center 91
3.1.4. Development orientation of the fisheries sector 92
3.1.5. Development orientation of coastal and marine tourism 96
3.1.6. Development orientation of marine traffic- transport 99
3.1.7. Development orientation of port-related industries 99
3.1.8. Development orientation of services associated with marine economy 99
3.2. Solutions to promoting sustainable development of marine economy in
Halong city 101
3.2.1. Mechanism and policy solutions 101
3.2.2. Organization and management solutions 103
3.2.3. Mobilize funds for development of marine economy 103

3.2.4. Training and development of human resources 104
3.2.5. E-commerce applications in the development of some sectors of marine
economy 105
3.2.6. Implementation of marine economy planning 108
3.2.7. Promoting inter-regional cooperation 109
3.2.8. Rational use of natural resources and protection of the marine
environment, coastal 110
3.2.9. Establishment and implementation of key programs towards
environmental resources protection and sustainable development of the seas111
CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS 114
REFERENCES 117
LIST OF APPENDICES 124




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LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS

DWT Dead Weight Tonnage
GDP Gross Domestic Product
GRT Gross Register Tonnage
GOP Gross Ocean Product
PhD Doctor of Philosophy
TEU Twenty foot Equivalent Units
UNESCO United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organization
USD United States dollar
VND Vietnamese dong

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LIST OF TABLES

Table 1.1: Rate of urban population in Halong city 29
Table 2.1: Changes area and output of other aquatic types in the period 2007 - 2009 52
Table 2.2: The number of boats machine in Halong city to 2011 52
Table 2.3: Synthesis of boats follow craft and capacity group to 2011 53
Table 2.4: Results attract foreign capital on the Halong city 61
Table 2.5: The situation of tourists comes to Halong period 2005 - 2010 61
Table 2.6: The structure of international tourists to Ha Long 63
Table 2.7: Inland dock system of Halong city 73
Table 2.8: Investment feasibility projects of Halong city 76
Table 3.1: Development of the number of boats to 2015 and orientation to 2020 92
Table 3.2: Aquaculture development in Halong to 2015 and orientation to 2020 94
LIST OF FIGURES

Figure 1.1: The sectors of marine economy 21
Figure 1.2: Diagram sustainable development of marine economy 24
Figure 2.1: The structure of economy Halong follow GDP 44
Figure 2.2: The situation of freshwater aquaculture at Halong city in the period
2001 - 2009 46
Figure 2.3: Evolution area and output of mollusks in the period 2001 - 2009 49
Figure 2.4: Evolution area and output of fish cages in the period 2001 – 2009 51
Figure 2.5: Situation labor fishery at Halong 57
Figure 2.6: Levels come back to Halong tourist destination of domestic guest 62
Figure 2.7: Situation of tourism revenue of Halong city in the period 2001 - 2010 64

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INTRODUCTION
1. Reason selected theme
The sea contains extremely valuable resources for the survival and
development of human. While resources of mainland are more and more exhausted,
the development of marine economy is considered as one of the national strategic
issues in the world. With advantages of 3260 km coastline, along with sea areas of
about 1 million km
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, Vietnam has been trying to take advantage of all available
resources to become one of the competitive nations in marine economy towards
environmental protection and sustainable development of coastal areas.
In addition, nowadays the South China Sea issue is also becoming a hot issue
in the Asia Pacific region. The advantages from the sea is main cause of all
tensionsbetween countries in this region. In Vietnam, the sea area covers have more
than 4000 islands in large and small sizes are distributed mainly in the Northeast sea
and Southwest. The islands are well-known for beautiful landscape and have
important strategic position such as: Bach Long Vi island, Phu Quoc island Tho
Chu island, Con Son island, Con Co island, Phu Quy island, Cat Ba island, and
island systems in the Spratly islands In particular, the sea area and coastal of
Vietnam are located on the vital maritime trade route between the Indian Ocean and
the Pacific Ocean, between Europe and the Middle East to China, Japan and other
countries in the region. This is both an opportunity and a challenge for Vietnam
regarding socio-economic development and national security. Because marine
economic development must be associated with the protection of national territory.
So, striving to become a “sea powers” does not only makes sense in economic terms,
but also help Vietnam affirm sovereignty of the national territory.

In Northern Vietnam, Ha Long is one of the coastal cities dynamic in
economic development. The city is located in the coastal corridor of the Gulf of
Tonkin, which is a critical point in the growth triangle Hanoi - Hai Phong - Quang
Ninh. In recent years, Halong plays an important role in socio-development of the
region. With comparative advantages of deep water port development, tourism,
marine services, minerals, together with a convenient transportation system, Halong



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has many favorable conditions towards comprehensive development of the marine
economy. However, the sector’s growth rate is not quite compensurate with the
potentials, posing urgent needs for specific orientations in sustainable development.
Aware of the importance of the seas in economic development, I conducted
the research on the following theme: “Sustainable development of marine economy
in Halong city”. The study provides a panoramic view on the marine economy in
Halong, particularly, the advantages, difficulties, problems, while offers suggestions
on directions and solutions to sustainable development of Halong’s marine
economy. It could also be the foundation for more in-depth research on the North
Sea economy of Vietnam.
2. Literature review
2.1. The relevant foreign research
Across world, exploitation of marine resources has existed for a long time.
However, the marine economic development has just attracted special attentions in
the twenty-first century. There are a number of foreign studies on the maritime
economy translated into Vietnamese such as: “Ocean exploitation” (1983) by
Michael Bequery, “Managing fishing capacity” (2004) by Dr. Dominique Greboval,
“A handbook for measuring the progress and outcomes of integrated coastal and
ocean management” (2006 ) published by the international organization UNESCO.
These studies have diverse approaches on the sea, the ocean, marine resources,

issues of management, exploitation, use and conservation of marine resources. In
particular, the book “A handbook for measuring the progress and outcomes of
integrated coastal and ocean management” has approach to an integrated
management that can be applied to coastal zone, the exclusive economic zone and
the ecosystem sea.
In addition, a number of economic studies on national sea also bring valuable
experience for marine economic development of Vietnam. For instance, the social
impacts on the marine economic development and solutions to resource
management in “Social impacts of marine reserves in New Zealand” (2003) by Nick
Taylor and Brigid Buckenham; innovation in the business marketing model to



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stimulus sustainability of the marine economy in Australian and future changes in
policies by the author Laura Eadie and Caroline Hoisington in “Stocking up:
Securing our marine economy” (2011); solutions to preserving and developing “the
blue marine economy” in China in the study “Keeping the marine economy Blue -
Blue economy development in the pilot coastal areas of China” (2011) - Third
Institute of Oceanography – China.
In general, these works focus on various aspects of the maritime economy as:
marine resources, fishing techniques, the most effective ways of management
towards sustainable development of the marine economy in the future. The research
mentioned above offer the basic criteria for the author in orientation of this thesis.
2.2. Domestic research on the marine economy of Halong city
Halong is a city that thrives on tourism and marine transportation. Especially
in the field of marine tourism gathers many documents. However, there is little
research on synthesis Halong city's maritime economy, which mainly research
articles, the journal of the marine economy: fisheries, marine transportation, tourism,
or an introduction to scenic Ha Long Bay, environmental protection, natural

resources Halong.
- Aquaculture and Halong biological resources:
The research “Seafood in Halong bay” (2008) by Nguyen Hoai Nam, Hoang
Thi Ngoc Ha, Tran Xuan written introduction full of seafood in the bay area.
Authors Nguyen Ngoc Lan solve the problem of labor by gender for fisheries in
Hung Thang - Halong city in research: “The role of gender in the production and
control of resources of fishing communities in Quang Ninh province (in case of
Hung Thang commune - Halong City and Quan Lan commune of Van Don district)”
- Journal of Southeast Asian studies, No. 6, 2003.
The works written about Halong biological resources are exploited
thoroughly to include: The “Biodiversity Halong bay and vicinity” (2005) by
Nguyen Khac Huong; “Coral in Halong bay: conservation and development of the
coral reef ecosystem” (2008) - Nguyen Dang Ngai; “Mangroves Ha Long Bay and
surrounding areas: Conservation and development of mangrove ecosystems” (2008)



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by the authors of Phan Hong Dung, Do Thanh Van, Hoang Thi Ngoc Ha; especially
in the “Proceedings of the scientific - practical conference: the value of diversity
represents a world natural heritage Halong Bay” (2007) full set of articles in the
workshop on diversified value the world's natural heritage Ha Long Bay on issues
of conservation and promotion of cultural values. Typical values varied natural
heritage of Ha Long Bay.
- Tourism and the scenic landscape of Ha Long:
Articles, researches in this area is quite diversified. Particularly prominent in
the field of tourism with the works: “Halong Bay Travel Handbook” (2010) by
Pham Hoang Hai; “Comprehensive mining landscape of Halong Bay tourism” by
Nguyen Thu Hanh in Vietnam travel Magazine, No. 10, 2004; “Preserve and
exploit the cultural values of Halong Bay” - Nguyen Cong Thai; PhD thesis

geographical of “Evaluating natural potential for tourism development sustainable
coastal and island areas of Quang Ninh province” (2012) by Vu Thi Hanh - Hanoi
University of Education. This is an overall assessment of the natural potential for
sustainable development of tourism in coastal areas and islands of Quang Ninh
province, including Ha Long Bay area.
Besides being a system of research material on the scenic landscape of Ha
Long: The “Ha Long” (1989) of the authors To Binh Minh, Nguyen Cao Dam,
Nguyen Manh Dan introduction to the land and the scenic Ha Long; “Ha Long Bay”
(2003) of Thy Sanh; “Landscape architecture Ha Long” (2004) by Nguyen Thang
Vu (ed.); “Halong Bay” (2006) the authors Nguyen Hanh, Tran Thi Thanh Nguyen,
Nguyen Duy Linh; “Cua Van floating cultural center characteristics of Halong
Bay” of authors Ngoc Can, Van Hoc - Literature published in the Journal of cultural
Heritage, No. 8, 2004. The content of posts surrounding the issue of material and
spiritual life of fishermen at Cua Van region. Besides, this article also analyzes the
fish cages at sea by fishermen.
- Industry associated with port:
The research in the field of industry associated with port is quite little. Most
notably is the book “30 years of Ha Long Shipyard” (2007). The book summarizes



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the history of 30 years (1976-2006) of the Ha Long shipyard in the picture and
article recorded material products, the production model of the shipyard beginning -
a port industry support, contributing to marine economic development.
- Sea transport:
Articles, research mainly focused on the Cai Lan port. Transportation Journal,
No. 5, 2005 article quoted “Investment Cai Lan port expansion to meet the trend of
development and international economic integration” by Lan Anh. Transportation
Journal, No. 10, 2005, has post “Rent infrastructure Cai Lan what is and is not”

The article revolves around the problem of assessing the situation lease at Cai Lan
port infrastructure, achievements, and problems exist. The article also points out the
cause of the weaknesses.
- Documents directly related to the maritime economy of Halong City with
book “Halong Bay and human life: development and conservation issues” of
authors David Brown, Vu Thi Hang, Cao Thi Mai. This is a picture book only
preliminary studies overview Halong maritime economy.
In short, the economic literature about the sea in Halong focus on sectors of
the maritime economy. Synthetic posts on marine economy is little, if any writing is
often a simple introductory writing, not deep research.
3. Research objects, tasks and scopes of thesis
• Research objects
Economic research thesis focused sea of Halong city. That is problem related
to the potential, the economic development situation of the city's sea. Impact
analysis, the impact from the policies of the Party and the state, the process of
urbanization and industrialization in Ha Long to integrated development of marine
economy.
• Objectives of theme
Research objectives of the thesis is to clarify the potential, actual
development of marine economy in Ha Long city. Based on that evaluation to the
analysis of the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, challenges and give



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orientations and measures to promote the sustainable development of marine
economy Halong.
• The task of thesis
To achieve the above objectives, the thesis has the following tasks:
- systematizing theoretical and practical foundations to make the

identification, analysis and evaluation of the economic potential sea of Ha Long
- Analysis and assessment of the status of marine economic development in
Halong
- Provide direction and propose solutions and recommendations to promote
marine economy development Halong in order to commensurate to the potential and
the position of the city, at the same time towards sustainable development and
protection of waters environment.
• Scope of research
+ Range of content: marine economy is a form of general economy include:
marine economy, coastal, island economy. Thesis only focuses on marine economy
and coastal of city
+ Space: sea area and coastal of Ha Long city
+ About time: dissertation data collection, and research papers from 2000 to
date to analyze and evaluate the situation marine economic development of Ha Long.
+ Scope to reach: the study of marine economy in Halong city is an
interesting topic that can be looked at many different angles as: economics,
geography, tourism, etc. In of this thesis, the author study marine economy under
view of a researcher about a field of Vietnamese studies major. So, in this work will
have an overview of a system, regional approach and research problems in
interdisciplinary methods.
4. Methodologies
• Area studies approach
Things and phenomena are spatial differentiation, making them the
difference between this place and other places. Besides, the things, the phenomenon
in an area relationships always in close contact with each other. Ha Long maritime



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economy itself is a complete whole, has difference with other marine economic

zones due to differences in geographical and natural conditions. However, the study
of marine economy in Ha Long city inseparable marine economy of Quang Ninh,
the Gulf of Tonkin and the country. Therefore, this approach allows the thesis has
both look overview and distinctive look in marine research economic issues.
Moreover, the approach point allows the thesis using interdisciplinary
scientific research to study a space in which residents (cultural space where the
socio-economic activities, where producing institutions), aimed at general cognitive
evaluation research problem.
• Interdisciplinary approach
This view was widely used in the research process. Marine economy is part
of the economy in general. It has relationships with many other sciences and within
the maritime economy has many small branches sticking together. So, when we
have to study the question of the mutual relationship and interaction of the elements
to create a complete system. To do this you need to have an interdisciplinary
approach, ie use the views, research results and methods of other disciplines such as:
economics, geography, tourism, history for the study of marine economy in Halong.
• Sustainable development perspective
Marine economic development is extremely sensitive issue, and there are two
side effects. A marine economic contribution to the economic development. On the
other hand, the marine economic development will cause impact on natural
resources and the marine environment. Therefore, the research problems of the sea
must be based on economic and ecological sustainable development. Sustainable
development has become the goal of socio-economic development of most
countries in the world. Therefore, the marine economic development must go
parallel with the rational use and protection of renewable natural resources, against
the risk of environmental pollution. On the other hand, development of marine
economy harmony with progress and social justice in order to improve the quality
of life of the people.

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5. Research methods
5.1. Actual survey methods and interview
Actual survey method is a traditional method of Geography widely used in
the study of problems of natural geography, the socio-economic order to the actual
collection of documents related to the formation and development. In the course of
implementation of the subject, the author has used this method to examine the
potential and actual situation of the marine economic sectors.
Interviewing (sociological investigation) has an especially important role in
the study of marine economy because of the social nature of the research object.
Most common method is to consult (directly or indirectly through the questionnaire),
personal observation At this thesis, the author has investigated economic sociology
of the sea on the two object main is aquaculture of households in floating houses at
Cua Van fishing village and domestic tourists to Ha Long. Survey of households
aquaculture on floating houses emitted 102 votes, and collected back 100 votes. The
number of questionnaires domestic tourists is 105 votes, and collected back 102
votes. In addition, the author interviews three families aquaculture in Cua Van
fishing village, including: the family of Mr.Nguyen Van Cho, Nguyen Van Quy and
Duong Van Thang.
5.2. Method diagrams, maps
On the basis of statistical data, the thesis built into the tables, charts, diagrams.
This is actual base to demonstrate the theoretical and practical problems. In fact, this
approach also contributes to solving research content such as resource assessment,
sectoral analysis of the current state and territory Using this method makes the
problem more comprehensive research, particular more and more intuitive.
5.3. SWOT analysis method
SWOT analysis is a quite effective method used in the study of marine
economy. SWOT analysis (SWOT Analysis) is a powerful analytical technique to

identify “strengths” and “weaknesses” from which to find “opportunities” and
“risk”. Strengths and weaknesses are often derived from internal economic sea of
Halong city. Opportunities and risks usually related to external factors. SWOT



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analysis was to assess the advantages and disadvantages of the problem. When
using it to analyze the problem by asking yourself questions about the “well –
advantages” and “bad-cons” for the present and the future. SWOT analysis is an
important tool in the study of marine economy, so it has ability to overarching large
for this research field.
5.4. Method comparison and analysis - synthesis
This thesis using comparable methods to marine economic comparison
purposes in different times, so that as a basis for making accurate assessment of the
current state of development of marine economy. At the same time, compared to the
region and neighboring areas.
Analysis - synthesis methods to analyze the phenomenon, the situation of
economy. Then develop become to the concepts, categories, theoretical issues in
accordance with the thesis. Besides, in the course of research the application of
analysis - synthesis methods more efficient. Because based on the analysis of
available documents and data, the actual document will help us have a more
comprehensive view of the field of marine economy. At the same time, will draw
the most comprehensive content to meet the tasks and objectives set by the subject.
6. The contribution of the thesis
Through theoretical and practical studies, thesis showed that the difference
between the potential and the situation development of marine economy in Ha Long
city. Then making orientation and optimal solution to develop effective and
sustainable marine economy in Halong.
This thesis is the basis for the policy makers, managers can give orientation,

direction, strategies to towards sustainable development of marine economy in Halong.
The results of the thesis research will contribute to the construction of
scientific evidence on the development of marine economy in a locality, is the basis
for the experts and scholars research analysis, recommend policies sustainable
development of marine economy in the context of international economic
integration of Vietnam.




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7. The structure of the thesis
In addition to an introduction and conclusion, the thesis consists of three
chapters:
Chapter 1: General theory and resources for marine economic development
of Halong city
Chapter 2: State of development of marine economy in Ha Long city
Chapter 3: Orientation and some solutions to promoting sustainable
development of marine economy in Ha Long city to 2020




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CONTENTS
Chapter 1
GENERAL THEORY AND RESOURCES FOR MARINE ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT OF HALONG CITY
1.1. The general theory of marine economy and sustainable development of
marine economy

1.1.1. Marine economy
Marine economy is an synthetic economic field, depending on the
contribution and level impact of marine for the national economy that the marine
economy there are ways to understand each other. In recent years, researchers in
Vietnam was interested in marine economic development. However there is no
consensus on this concept.
Synthesis report “The solutions to sustainable development and effective
marine economy of Danang” (2002) by Danang Department of Planning and
Investment said that: Economics sea is the organic combination between economic
activities at the sea with the economic activities of coastal area, sea which primarily
serves the mining of raw materials to transportation activities, activities tourism,
and most of the work organization of production, processing and logistics services
for the exploration of the sea is located on the mainland. The strong development of
science and technology in recent decades allowed people can be exploited, using a
variety of natural resources of the seas and oceans. [63,pg.4]
At the conference: “Marine economy vision and fisheries development in
Vietnam” by Vietnam Institute of Social Sciences and the Ministry of Agriculture
and Rural Development jointly held in Hanoi in 2007, Dr. Nguyen Thiet Hung has
posts “The marine economy of Vietnam in integration: opportunities and problems”.
This article refers to the concept of the marine economy. The author argues that the
maritime economy is an integrated economic sectors including 6 ingredients
economy as: economic port; shipbuilding economy; island tourism economy;
fisheries economy; mining economy; encroachment marine economy [26]. In
particular, economic port play a key role.



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According to “Marine economy development strategy of Vietnam” by Dr. Bui
Tat Thang - Ministry of Planning and Investment, the sea covers the entire

economic activity takes place on the sea, that is: Maritime (maritime transport and
port services); fisheries (fishing and aquaculture); offshore oil and gas exploration;
vocational salt; rescue services search and rescue; island economy. Can be
considered as the perspective of marine economy in the narrow sense. On the other
hand, research of marine economy also refers to the economic activity directly
related to the exploration of the sea. This can be seen as the concept of marine
economy in the broadest sense, including: Shipbuilding and ship repair (this
operation is also integrated into the maritime sector); petroleum processing industry;
industry sea seafood; provide marine services; sea communications; research marine
science and technology, training human resource for marine economic development,
basic surveys on natural resources, environmental sea. Thus, the marine economy
includes all economic activities taking place on the sea and the economic activity
directly related to the exploration of the sea.
PhD thesis “Economic sea in the South Central provinces of Vietnam” (2012)
of Dr. Nguyen Ba Ninh has concept of marine economy that: When it comes to
marine economy, refers to an area or a region for economic distinct from the
mainland economy, just as when it comes to the rural economy is used to
distinguish the urban sector in a country. Overall maritime economy is the
economic activity takes place on the sea, coast and islands [31,pg.24]. Economic
activity takes place on the beach include: fisheries, offshore oil and gas, shipping
and port services (referred to as the maritime economy), search and rescue services
and rescue; marine tourism The economic activities in the coastal strip of land
(coastal economy) is due to the marine elements or direct service activities related
to the exploitation of the sea. Coastal economy is all the economic activities in the
coastal belt (can be calculated according to the coastal area of the town, the coastal
district, or it may be the coastal provinces adjacent land border to the sea), including
the following fields: Agriculture, forestry, fishing and seafood processing industry,
oil and gas extraction and processing industry; shipbuilding and ship repair (this

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operation also covered by general maritime economy); marine services; sea
communications; marine scientific research and technology, human resource
training for the development of marine economy, basic surveys on natural resources
and the environment the sea From here, we can understand the marine economy in
the broadest sense are all the activities that take place at sea, coastal, island linked to
national sovereignty.
According to Dr. Nguyen Ba Ninh can understand: marine economy is an
synthetic economic sector, diverse sectors in it. Marine economy, including force
production: labor force, technical infrastructure, science and technology system and
the relations of production (economic entities of the sea), the type of business now,
the type of organization of production and business in the marine economy.
The concept of the marine economy of Dr. Nguyen Ba Ninh is a concept
fully synthetic.
Thus, when it comes to marine economy typically include the following
economic sectors:
- Fisheries economy including: aquaculture, seafood exploitation;
- Tourism of sea and island
- Exploitation and mineral processing of sea: exploitation and oil filters,
marine minerals, sand, glass, jewelry, salt,
- Maritime economy include: shipping and port services; building and
repairing ships
- Operation rescue, rescue, maritime security island.
- The scientific research and personnel training for the areas in the field of
marine economy.
- The operations and support services to the marine economy: business travel,
trading and export of aquatic products; banking services; insurance services;
communication
In the branches above, four sectors are considered key of marine economy as:

seafood economy, tourism of marine and island, exploitation and mineral processing of sea,
and maritime economy. The other sectors has effect to support for marine economy.



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Figure 1.1: The sectors of marine economy
1.1.2. Specialization and the synthetic development of marine economy
Today, with the advancement of science and technology, specialization
promote boosting labor productivity, reduce labor costs and time. Specialization is
generally understood that specializes in one sector, a certain field in order to
improve labor productivity.
The specialization of marine economy focus on specific fields such as:
marine transportation specialization, marine tourism specialization, fishing and
aquaculture specialization And within the content of each field of specialization
further separated into smaller operations. For example: marine transportation
specialization has deeper specialization, that is fleet shipping specialization,
specialized handling capacity of the port It can be said specialization will promote
remarkable development, improve labor productivity. Each industry created a
“sustainable link” for marine economic development.
Besides “specialization”, “synthetic development” is also an important factor
when it comes to the field of marine economy. Synthetic development of marine
economy create favorable conditions for sectors harmonious development and
support each other, help for deeper specialization.
According to Prof. Dr. Le Thong, and Prof. Dr. Nguyen Viet Thinh:
“Develop integrated maritime economy is to exploit the marine resources to the
development of various economic sectors, between sectors have close relationships,

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support mutual development and the development of a sector are not effect or cause
damage to other sectors”. [65]
Why should be synthetic development of marine economy?
First, the sea is a valuable resource should be synthetic development to take
advantage of all the strengths of the sea.
Second, marine resources - rich and diverse island to create favorable
conditions for the synthetic development of many marine economic sectors.
Third, synthetic development of marine economy will help the marine-
related industries such as aquaculture and seafood processing; sea and island
tourism; exploitation and mineral processing of sea; marine transportation, and
long-term development, bringing huge profits and do not affect each other, and
protect marine resources, does not pollute the environment.
Fourth, synthetic marine economy is a necessary model to make sample for
synthetic economy sectors other.
Fifth, synthetic development of marine economy is considered one of the
“nuclear” key to become “sea powers”.
1.1.3. Sustainable development of marine economy
At the end of the twentieth century, the conflict between environment and
development is increasingly evident on a global scale. Habitat is seriously
threatened. So, to maintain sustainable development is an urgent requirement for
each country, organization, business or individual.
The term “sustainable development” first appeared in the book “Sustainable
development” in 1980. Its published by the Association Conservation of Nature and
Natural Resources International.
In 1987 in the report “Our future” Committee of the world's environment and
development have given the general concept: “Sustainable development is
development can response the current needs, but not affected the ability to meet the
needs of future generations”. [88,pg.15]

World Commission and the Environment and Development (WCED) also
said: “Sustainable development is development that meets the needs of the present
without compromising the ability to meet needs of future generations”. [13]



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The internal function of sustainable development was reaffirmed in the Rio
Conference - 92 and must be added to complete the Johannesburg Conference 2002:
“Sustainable development is development that combines tight, logicaland harmony
between the three aspects of the development. These are: economic development,
social justice and environmental protection”[24,pg.6]. Thus, in principle,
sustainable development is a process running simultaneously three aspects of
development: sustainable economic growth; social prosperity, fairness, stability,
cultural diversity and environmental, sustainable resource. Therefore, the complete
system of moral principles for sustainable development, including sustainable
development principles in the “3 pillar” economic, social, environmental.
From the point of view above can be conclusion that: sustainable
development of marine economy, the need to pay attention at the same time the
three objectives, namely: (i) To develop economically effective; (ii) development of
harmonizedsocial; (iii) Improving the ecological environment to ensure the needs
for the present without compromising future generations.
Marine economy is part of the economy, so the maritime economy also operate
on the principle of sustainable development of the economy in general. For sustainable
development of marine economy, the need to ensure the following factors:
- Development of effective economic sea (sea economic growth, economic
efficiency, saving resources);
- Development of social harmony (raising the standard of living and level of
the strata of the population lives in the sea and coastal areas, to ensure social justice,
solidarity, friendly);

- Improve the marine ecological environment to ensure long-term
development for present and future generations (rational exploitation and use of
marine resources, protection of the marine environment. Apply science and
technology to promote the production production in order to improve productivity
and output. Simultaneously farming, renewable new marine resources to replace, )



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Figure 1.2: Diagram sustainable development of marine economy
1.2. Factors affecting the development of marine economy in Halong
1.2.1. Development trends of marine economy in the world, objectives and
strategic development of marine economy in Vietnam
1.2.1.1. Development trends of marine economy in the world
Strategists spoke that 21st century is “the century of ocean and sea”. Currently,
along with strong growth about economy and population, natural resources on the
land will be exhausted. The world economy is increasingly dependent on the seas and
oceans. The mineral resources, biology, and ocean energy has an important
significance for the economy and the activities of human life.
Therefore, most countries want toward of the sea too, build sea strategy, and
enhancing the potential to maximize the resources from the sea. Particularly in
resource exploitation activities, the countries in the world tend to conservation on
land and sea. Besides, the countries trying to take advantage of his influence and
prestige to reach out beyond the exploitation of ocean resources. So the ocean will
become a promising field for economic activity, and is the most important factor in
the field of geopolitics. So, the oceans will become areas of intense competition for
division of spheres of influence in the future between nations.
The first is the development trend of Singapore's marine economy. This is a
small island has an narrow area. If singapore want to economic development, this

country must be invasive marine. Singapore has a number of policies and regulations



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to conserve marine resources. Regardless of individual or collective want to
reclamation and polders must be paid enough to move the coral reefs go to elsewhere,
or have to pay. Government will move to help them to conserve marine ecosystems.
China's marine economy develope with high speed, 2011 gross ocean
product (GOP) account for about 9.7% of China's GDP [87, pg.2]. Currently, the
South China Sea issue is increasingly interested in high level, reflecting China's
ambitions for marine resources. In the country, China also launched a series of laws
on the management and exploitation of the sea. China has built the frame charges,
taxes, use of marine resources. Determine the scientific development perspective,
derived from the national strategic needs, adapt to the comprehensive
implementation of the goal of building society in 2020, revolves around four key:
Modernization associated with industrial marine; planning the exploration of the sea;
promote science and technology and the protection of the marine ecological
environment; exploitation and development of comprehensive marine harmony.
Compliance five basic principles: Protection of the sea; overall planning and
harmonious development; sustainable development; take scientific and technical
direction; actively participate in international marine mining.
In the U.S, the big lakes, the beaches and the oceans in the future to focus on
environmental protection, safety, prosperity and development is managed in a
sustainable way, to plan better use,limit the impact of bad weather and natural
disasters, mitigate loss about human and property. U.S. active exchange of scientific,
technical, policy and technology to other countries, especially developing countries,
to achieve sustainable results at the international level. The activities of the U.S. in
the South China Sea issue said that the United States want to intervene in the seas
and oceans of the world, put “hand power” to mark this place.

For Russia, the sea plays an extremely important role. Russia's marine
borders has length about 38.800km (land border is only 14,500 km); territorial
waters 4.2 million km2, of which 3.9 million km2 has large mineral potential [14].
By sea, Russia mastered more energy and strengthen their political position for the
world. Recently, Russia's oceans program also identified three major tasks: One is