BEIJING - A Chinese think tank was launched on Friday with aims to contribute to the research and decision-making on marine affairs of the country.

The China Association of Marine Affairs (CAMA), made up of more than 200 representatives from relevant oceanic authorities and research institutions, colleges and companies, will become an important advisor for China's marine development.

The association's main function is to organize academic research and exchanges centering on marine economic development, oceanic resource exploitation and ecologic protection, and the safeguarding of national marine rights and interests, said Wang Shuguang, chairman of the CAMA's executive council.

Wang said the association will help train facilitate academic exchange as well as provide consultation for the central authorities and government departments dealing with marine affairs.