THE BLOG

Heading for the Côte d’Azur blue economy: innovation and transition serving the region

A strategic study led by the Nice Côte d’Azur Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCI) and its partners: the publication “Croissance bleue 06” provides a structured overview of the maritime sector. It sets out a clear trajectory towards sustainable, innovative and collaborative development.
A structured and dynamic sector at the heart of the Côte d’Azur coastline: the blue economy mobilises 2,120 establishments and 5,000 jobs in the Alpes-Maritimes. It generates €1.2 billion in revenue across eight activity segments.
Innovation at the heart of the territorial strategy: the Nice Côte d’Azur Metropolis promotes concrete solutions for exemplary blue growth, with the organisation of the Blue Innovation Challenge and events such as the Nice Ocean Business Forum.
Local companies committed to responsible transformation: Leather Yachts, Naval Transition and other regional players embody the shift towards high-end, sustainable and technologically advanced services.

A structuring study serving blue growth

The Nice Côte d’Azur CCI confirms its driving role in analysing and supporting the region’s maritime economy. With its “Croissance bleue 06” study, it offers a precise mapping of the sector, its strengths and its prospects.

This summary document highlights the key features of the local blue economy, current innovation dynamics, identified growth drivers, and collective levers to be activated. It stands out as a strategic tool for public and private stakeholders committed to the maritime transition.

An economic base structured into eight segments

With 2,120 establishments, 5,000 direct jobs and €1.2 billion in revenue, the Côte d’Azur maritime sector shows a clear and diversified structure. Eight economic segments, from yachting to Blue Tech, including shipbuilding, marine resources and port activities, define the local economic landscape.

Nautical activities remain predominant, but new growth drivers are consolidating. Leather Yachts, a company specialising in leather restoration for yachts, illustrates the high-end positioning of the local offer. For its part, Naval Transition, a young Nice-based eco-responsible naval architecture company, is part of the sustainable innovation dynamic.

An innovation dynamic driven by the Nice Côte d’Azur Metropolis

The Nice Côte d’Azur Metropolis actively supports the structuring of a sustainable maritime ecosystem. With the Blue Innovation Challenge, it encourages the emergence of high-impact technological solutions: decarbonised mobility, sustainable resource management, ecological restoration.

The scheme, open until 31 January 2026, funds mature projects and supports their development in the region. It reflects a proactive strategy that places the blue economy at the heart of the territorial transition.

A strong international positioning with UNOC

By hosting the United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC) in June 2025, the Nice Côte d’Azur Metropolis has strengthened its visibility on the international stage. The Nice Ocean Business Forum, organised in this context, brought together companies, institutions and experts around the challenges of the sustainable maritime economy.

This event helped bring out operational partnerships and positioned the Côte d’Azur as a benchmark territory in the Mediterranean for blue innovation and maritime governance.