China's State Oceanic Administration says the country's regional marine economy has developed rapidly in 2004, led by three major coastal areas.

The administration points out the total output value of marine industry in the Pan-Bohai Sea and Yangtze River Delta economic zones was more than four hundred billion yuan, or about 48 billion US dollars, respectively.

In the Pearl River Delta region the industry is worth two hundred billion yuan, or about 24 billion US dollars.

The administration says tourism in these coastal areas, offshore fishing and shipping are leading China's marine industry. Oil and gas exploitation and petrochemicals as well as ship manufacturing are also set to enjoy a boost.