Regional Differences and Dynamic Changes in Sea Use Efficiency in China

This study aims to identify the overall level of China’s sea use efficiency (SUE) from 2006 to 2018 as well as regional differences and dynamic changes The super-efficiency weighted slacks-based measure (Super-WSBM) model and the global Malmquist–Luenberger (GML) index are employed. Results indicate that the SUE is at a medium-efficiency level. The inspection period revealed a decline period (2006–2008), a steady increase period (2008–2013), and a rapid increase period (2013–2018), exhibiting a “checkmark” type of growth. SUE has significant regional differences, and the degree of polarization has increased. Shanghai, Guangdong, and Shandong are high-efficiency regions, but unlike Shandong, which has experienced a rapid growth, the SUE of Shanghai and Guangdong has declined to varying degree, in Shanghai being particularly significant; Jiangsu and Tianjin are medium-efficiency regions, and SUE has experienced a rapid growth; Fujian, Hebei, and Zhejiang are inferior-efficiency regions, and SUE has slightly increased; Liaoning, Hainan, and Guangxi are low-efficiency regions. Except for a slight decline in Hainan, Liaoning and Guangxi experienced small increases. Thus, a sea use policy must be formulated on the basis of local conditions to promote the coordinated development of the marine economy. Moreover, the negative external impact of sea use on the marine environment must be observed, and marine resources within the range of the sea must be utilized.