Trade in ocean-based goods and services hit record $2.2 trillion in 2023

Trade in ocean-based goods and services hit a record $2.2 trillion in 2023, according to UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD).

But climate change, overfishing, pollution and underinvestment threaten the ocean, its resources and the livelihoods of over 600 million people who depend on fisheries.

Against this backdrop, the 3rd United Nations Ocean Conference, co-organized by France and Costa Rica, is set to take place on 9-13 June in the French city of Nice.

The weeklong event will accelerate global action and mobilize all actors – government leaders, policymakers, businesses, academia, civil society and beyond to sustainably use the ocean while supporting livelihoods.

The overarching theme of the Conference is “Accelerating action and mobilizing all actors to conserve and sustainably use the ocean” and aims to support further and urgent action to conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas and marine resources for sustainable development.

It will build on existing instruments to form successful partnerships towards the swift conclusion and effective implementation of ongoing processes that contribute to the conservation and sustainable use of the ocean.