Fangchenggang: Embracing Sustainability from Traditional Fishing to Marine Innovation

Fangchenggang, a coastal city located in the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region of southern China, is charting a sustainable path toward marine economic development, blending its rich cultural heritage with modern innovations. The city's fishermen, skilled in the age-old practice of stilt fishing, are adapting to new challenges as traditional livelihoods evolve into thriving industries.

For centuries, stilt fishing has been a common sight in Fangchenggang. Fishermen, balancing on stilts nearly five feet above the sea, have traditionally harvested shrimp and fish during the peak seasons from May to October, especially before the arrival of typhoons. While stilt fishing continues to be a cherished practice, it is now primarily part of the region's cultural heritage, attracting tourists and enhancing coastal tourism experiences.

As traditional fishing practices decline, Fangchenggang has shifted towards advanced marine technologies and practices that reflect broader trends in sustainable economic development. The local economy is growing significantly, buoyed by investments in marine engineering, aquaculture, and environmentally friendly energy sources. By integrating modern technology with traditional practices, Fangchenggang serves as a model for communities hoping to adapt to changing economic landscapes while preserving their heritage.

The transformation of Fangchenggang’s economy is evident, with its GDP growing by an impressive 6.3% in 2025, positioning it among the leaders in Guangxi for three consecutive years. Reports indicate that the gross ocean product surged to an increase of 8.5% year-on-year, outpacing overall GDP growth and showcasing the region's commitment to marine economic advancement.

The city’s shift towards a diversified marine economy not only includes traditional fishing but also encompasses expanding industries such as aerospace, renewable energy, and high-tech materials. This transition emphasizes the need to develop a more sustainable marine economy that prioritizes efficiency, innovation, and long-term outcomes. As highlighted by Liu Shuguang, a professor at the Ocean University of China, the upcoming 15th Five-Year Plan period (2026-2030) will enhance the focus on sustainable marine economic development, recognizing the ocean as an essential element for China’s future growth.

In Dongxing, a small fishing village within Fangchenggang, local fisherman Su Haibing emphasizes the evolution of the community’s economic landscape. After learning how to stilt fish from his grandfather, Su recalls a time when fishing alone was barely sufficient for survival. Now, local villagers have successfully pivoted towards tourism, resulting in a boost to their economic stability. Summer sees more than a million tourists flock to the area, which has experienced rapid growth in hospitality and seafood businesses.

The region’s economic diversification is supported by the development of high-tech industries. For instance, the AIRSAT Technology Group has successfully launched Beibu Gulf No. 1, Guangxi's first satellite with independent intellectual property rights, enhancing navigation capabilities and maritime resource management. The satellite provides essential data services for local fishermen and is a testament to the strategic investments Fangchenggang is making in technology.

Not only does Fangchenggang lead in technological advancements, but it also supports the surge in sustainable aquaculture. In the offshore areas, large platforms for deep-sea golden pompano aquaculture signify a departure from conventional fishing towards modernity. Local firms now focus on high-quality fish breeding and sustainable practices, showcasing an impressive total aquatic output that exceeded 649,200 tons in 2025.

Fangchenggang is also committed to protecting its unique ecological environment, with significant mangrove areas preserved, which play an essential role in biodiversity and conservation. The city has made remarkable progress in developing renewable energy projects, including nuclear and offshore wind power, becoming self-sufficient in energy production while also exporting clean energy to adjacent regions.

The city has capitalized on its geographic advantages, establishing a robust land-sea intermodal transport network that strengthens trade links with ASEAN countries. With growing connectivity for both imports and exports, Fangchenggang is emerging as a prominent trade hub. According to local authorities, the port's import and export value reached 170.55 billion yuan in 2025, including a substantial increase in cross-border e-commerce.

In summation, the narrative of Fangchenggang is one of resilience and forward-thinking, as it transitions from traditional fishing to a multifaceted marine economy. The city's emphasis on sustainable practices, technological innovation, and cultural preservation serves as a beacon for other regions striving for a similar balance between heritage and development. This coastal city is redefining its relationship with the ocean, embracing a future characterized by prosperity rooted in sustainability and innovation.