China's 12th Five-Year Plan sets out a full-scale strategy for developing China's maritime economy and securing its maritime territory, according to a report in Orient Outlook magazine.

The country's maritime economy has expanded 13.5% annually over the past five years. In 2010, China's gross maritime product reached 3.8 trillion yuan.

But the figure only accounts for 9.7% of the national economy, still short of the planned 11%. While fishing catches have dropped due to pollution and over-fishing, fears that land-based resources may run out have increased significance of offshore exploration.

China's blue ocean strategy is also reflected in an expansion of departments responsible for offshore patrolling.

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