Review on the development of kelp industry in Shandong province: A comparative perspective

Abstract

Shandong and Fujian are two important provinces regarding the development of the seaweed industry, which shared three-fourths of the national seaweed yield in the year 2020. The present study has analyzed the overall situation of the seaweed industry in Shandong and Fujian provinces by comparing annual output, farming area, and species structure. The current status of Laminaria japonica cultivation in two provinces is also compared to the production process, industrial organization, progress, and innovation. On this foundation, the following development strategies are proposed for the seaweed industry in Shandong Province: (1) change the mindset based on the present industrial basis, (2) retain and transform innovative achievements, (3) enhance the services of associations and organizations and (4) construct brands based on current market share.