What largely influences the economic focus on ocean resources by nations around the world?

The economic focus on ocean resources by nations around the world is largely influenced by technological advancements. Over the years, improvements in technology have significantly increased the ability to explore, extract, and sustainably manage ocean resources. For example, advances in marine engineering and robotics have allowed for deeper and more efficient fishing and resource extraction from the ocean floor. Additionally, enhanced navigation and communication technologies have improved maritime operations, making it easier to transport goods across oceans.

While social development, climate change, and global trade are all important factors that can influence how nations interact with ocean resources, it is the technological advancements that provide the tools and capabilities needed to effectively utilize those resources. As technology evolves, it opens new opportunities for economic activities such as aquaculture, deep-sea mining, and renewable energy from ocean currents and waves, thereby shaping the economic strategies of many countries.