The European Commission has released its 2025 EU Blue Economy Report, showcasing the remarkable recovery and expansion of ocean-related industries across the European Union. According to the latest data, the EU blue economy generated nearly €890 billion in turnover and contributed €250.7 billion in gross value added (GVA) in 2022. Employment within the sector reached 4.82 million people, and early estimates for 2023 show continued growth, with GVA rising to €263 billion and employment increasing to 4.88 million.
This economic rebound reflects a strong recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. Key contributors to this upswing include maritime transport, coastal tourism, and marine renewable energy, which saw notable increases in both employment and GVA. Additionally, emerging sectors such as blue biotechnology, ocean energy, and desalination are beginning to open new avenues for investment and innovation across the EU.
Coastal Tourism and Offshore Wind Lead the Way
Coastal tourism continues to dominate the EU blue economy landscape. In 2022, it was responsible for 33% of the total GVA and accounted for more than half (53%) of employment within the blue economy sectors. Despite facing setbacks during the pandemic, this industry has rebounded strongly, reinforcing its critical role in sustaining economic activity in EU coastal regions.
Meanwhile, offshore wind energy has emerged as one of the fastest-growing segments. In 2022, the sector saw a 42% increase in GVA compared to the previous year, with profits climbing to €4.1 billion. This impressive growth underscores the EU’s commitment to expanding renewable energy sources, particularly those with maritime applications, and aligns with broader European Green Deal targets.
The report also shines a light on the energy transition within maritime transport and the EU fishing fleet, pointing to significant investments in cleaner and more sustainable operational practices. These shifts are not only reducing emissions but also setting new industry benchmarks for environmental responsibility.
Nature-Based Solutions and Sustainable Outlook
The 2025 report places special emphasis on nature-based solutions for tackling climate-related challenges in coastal areas. These include initiatives such as wetland restoration and dune reinforcement, which help mitigate the effects of flooding and coastal erosion. The European Commission estimates that the benefits of nature-based solutions outweigh their costs by more than 3.5 times, reinforcing their economic and ecological value.
The broader vision for the EU blue economy is guided by a 2021 EU strategy that promotes sustainability, innovation, and cross-border cooperation. This strategy integrates marine industries into the European Green Deal, emphasizing the importance of a holistic approach to economic development that balances growth with environmental stewardship.
As the EU continues to navigate climate goals and global economic shifts, the EU blue economy is emerging not just as a recovery engine but as a driver of sustainable innovation, offering long-term economic resilience rooted in environmental responsibility and technological progress.
