Business · Economy · 5 hrs ago
UNAM economists urge Mexico to develop its marine economy sustainably
UNAM economists say Mexico has not turned its marine resources into broad economic development despite coastlines on the Atlantic and Pacific.
The country's blue economy accounts for less than 0.5% of its economy, according to researcher Clemente Ruiz Durán.
The economists say sustainable use of the seas could create industries, jobs and better living conditions while protecting marine and coastal ecosystems.
They propose adding ocean-related activities to Mexico's industrial policy, including shipbuilding, fishing, aquaculture, marine biotechnology and ocean energy.
Coastal states such as Chiapas and Oaxaca could gain jobs, including alternatives to informal work.
The proposals also include using marine resources to develop medicines, treatments and new foods, and linking the effort with Mexico's industrial, trade and environmental plans.
UNAM economists say Mexico has not turned its maritime resources into economic development despite its location between the Atlantic and Pacific oceans and its diverse coastal ecosystems.
They urged the country to build a more sustainable marine economy through technological innovation, stronger local production and conservation of marine and coastal ecosystems.
Economist Clemente Ruiz Durán said the blue economy accounts for less than 0.5% of Mexico’s national economy.
He proposed adding marine industries to national industrial policy, including shipbuilding, fishing, aquaculture, marine biotechnology and ocean energy.
UNAM economist Lorena Rodríguez León said a sustainable transition should create industrial capabilities, jobs and better living conditions.
- Who
- UNAM economists Lorena Rodríguez León and Clemente Ruiz Durán, among others, called for developing Mexico’s blue economy.
- What
- They urged sustainable use of marine resources and stronger related industries.
- When
- November 14, 2026, when the report was published.
- Where
- At an international seminar in Mexico; the specific venue is not stated.
- Why
- Mexico has not converted its maritime resources into economic development, and the blue economy represents less than 0.5% of the national economy.
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- Blue economy share
- Less than 0.5% of Mexico’s national economy
- Seminar
- Toward a New Productive Paradigm for the Blue Economy in Mexico
- Proposed industries
- Shipbuilding, fishing, aquaculture, marine biotechnology and ocean energy
- Potential beneficiaries
- Coastal states including Chiapas and Oaxaca
What people are saying
The transition toward a more sustainable economy must also represent an opportunity to strengthen our productive structure, develop new technological capabilities and create better living conditions for the population.