The world’s oceans are under increasing pressure from competing demands: economic growth, food security, tourism, energy development, and the urgent need to conserve fragile marine ecosystems. For developing countries like Vietnam, which depend heavily on the ocean for livelihoods and national growth, the challenge is to balance the use, protection, and long-term sustainability of ocean resources.
Against this backdrop, the International Conference 2025 Ocean Futures: Smart Technologies and Sustainable Coastal Living brought together global experts in urban planning, ocean economy, and data-driven solutions as part of the Blue Economy series.
MSP can help reconcile conflicting interests
At the conference, Dr. Ho Quoc Thong of the University of Economics Ho Chi Minh City (UEH) and EfD-Vietnam presented his study Marine Spatial Planning: International experiences and lessons for Vietnam. The research is part of EfD’s Blue Resources for Development (BlueRforD) collaborative research program, which aims for better policies for managing marine and coastal resources.
"BlueRforD provides knowledge"
Ho Quoc Thong’s study reviewed more than 110 international articles and 50 policy documents on marine spatial planning (MSP). He showed how MSP can help reduce conflicts between different ocean users, strengthen legal and data systems, and guide Vietnam’s new National Marine Spatial Plan (2021–2030, vision 2050).
“BlueRforD’s work can give Vietnam the knowledge it needs to grow its marine economy while protecting ecosystems,” Ho Quoc Thong said.
The study highlights how EfD and BlueRforD can contribute to Vietnam’s efforts to build a sustainable blue economy — from fisheries and aquaculture to renewable energy and coastal conservation.
By: Nhan Le.