Evolution of marine spatial planning policies for mariculture in China: Overview, experience and prospects

Abstract

This paper aims to discuss the evolution of marine spatial planning policies for mariculture in China. Word frequency analysis was used to analyze the evolution of marine spatial planning (MSP) policies. The marine spatial planning policies for mariculture in China since 1988 were divided into three periods: the production period, the integrated management period and the sustainable development period. The experience was analyzed accordingly and listed as follows: focusing on environmental issues, improving production quality and sustainable development in mariculture, application of diverse policy tools, and pre-event monitoring and post-event evaluation. Finally, we proposed prospects based on the formulation and implementation of MSP policies in the long run, such as improving policy implementation and regulations, supporting more stakeholders to engage in activities and developing long-term planning.