Ocean Economy

CNMI’s ocean economy employs up to 8,300 people annually—about 40 to 50 percent of the commonwealth’s total employment. Annual gross domestic product is about $922 million.

Leading Employer

Of all of the sectors of CNMI’s ocean economy, tourism and recreation is by far the leading employer, accounting for about 90 percent of ocean economy employment and between 40 and 50 percent of total employment.

Natural Hazards

Four weather disasters affected CNMI in 2018—and a total of five affected the territory between 2010 and 2018.

Coastal Resources

The total annual economic value provided by CNMI’s coral reefs and seagrass is $114.8 million. **