China is harnessing advanced seawater desalination technologies to fuel its blue economy, as outlined in a pivotal article by Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, published March 16 in Qiushi Journal. The piece emphasizes strategic marine resource utilization while maintaining ecological balance—a vision now driving innovation across coastal regions.
With over 160 large-scale desalination plants operational along the Chinese mainland's coast, capacity has grown 15% annually since 2023. "This technology addresses water scarcity and creates new economic corridors," explains Dr. Li Wei, a marine researcher at Ocean University of China. Shandong Province recently inaugurated Asia's first hybrid solar-desalination facility, producing 50,000 tons of freshwater daily.
The push aligns with China's 2026-2030 marine economy roadmap, targeting 30% renewable energy integration in desalination projects. While environmentalists urge cautious brine discharge management, officials highlight strict new emission standards enacted this February. For investors, the sector presents opportunities—market analysts project $2.8 billion in related infrastructure contracts this year alone.
