Naznin Sultana

China celebrated its 22nd National Maritime Day on July 11, highlighting the country’s growing influence in global shipping, shipbuilding, and maritime trade while emphasizing the transformative role of digital intelligence in the future of navigation.

This year’s National Maritime Day, which also coincides with China’s observance of World Maritime Day, was held under the theme of advancing digital intelligence in maritime development. According to China’s Ministry of Transport (MOT), the main commemorative event took place in Beijing for the first time in a hybrid format, combining in-person and online participation to broaden engagement across the country.

In a statement released on July 11, the Ministry of Transport underscored China’s emergence as one of the world’s leading maritime nations. The announcement highlighted the country’s significant role in global commerce, noting that China now accounts for nearly one-third of global seaborne trade. Its extensive shipping network connects major trading partners and regions around the world, reinforcing its position as a vital hub in international logistics and supply chains.

China’s port infrastructure continues to rank among the world’s most advanced. According to the ministry, eight of the world’s top ten ports by cargo throughput are located in China, while six of the top ten ports by container throughput are also Chinese. These achievements reflect decades of investment in modern port facilities, logistics systems, and transportation networks that support both domestic economic growth and international trade.

The country’s shipbuilding industry has also maintained a dominant global position. China has led the world in the three major shipbuilding indicators-including new orders, completed ships, and order backlog-for 16 consecutive years, demonstrating its sustained competitiveness in one of the world’s most strategically important industries.

Beyond shipping and shipbuilding, China’s broader marine economy has continued to expand rapidly. The Ministry of Transport reported that the country’s marine economy has surpassed 11 trillion yuan (approximately $1.62 trillion), highlighting the increasing contribution of ocean-related industries to national economic development.

The celebration also paid tribute to China’s rich maritime heritage. The ministry noted that Chinese shipbuilding techniques and navigation technologies have evolved continuously since the Han Dynasty (206 BC–220 AD), laying the foundation for the ancient Maritime Silk Road. These maritime routes facilitated trade, cultural exchanges, and diplomatic ties between China and civilizations across Asia, Africa, and Europe.

A central historical figure honored during the observance was the renowned Ming Dynasty navigator Zheng He, whose seven voyages to the “Western Oceans” more than 600 years ago remain among the most remarkable maritime expeditions in history. Equipped with advanced shipbuilding technology and sophisticated astronomical navigation methods, Zheng He’s fleets traveled across Southeast Asia, South Asia, the Middle East, and East Africa, fostering commercial exchange and cultural interaction between East and West.

July 11 holds special significance because it marks the date when Zheng He embarked on his first historic voyage. Recognizing the enduring importance of his expeditions, China’s State Council officially designated July 11 as National Maritime Day in 2005, coinciding with the 600th anniversary of Zheng He’s first voyage.

This year’s celebration also reflected China’s broader ambition to integrate advanced digital technologies into maritime operations. Under the theme of digital intelligence, policymakers and industry leaders discussed the application of artificial intelligence, big data, smart shipping technologies, and digital navigation systems to improve maritime safety, operational efficiency, environmental sustainability, and global connectivity.

As international trade continues to rely heavily on maritime transportation, Chinese officials view technological innovation as essential to maintaining the country’s competitive edge. The Ministry of Transport said that digital transformation will play a central role in building a modern maritime sector capable of supporting high-quality economic development while strengthening China’s position as a leading global maritime power.

With its combination of historical legacy, industrial strength, and technological ambition, the 22nd National Maritime Day highlighted China’s continuing efforts to shape the future of global shipping and maritime cooperation.