China has recognized the importance of marine habitats and started to conserve them in a much more dedicated manner. As discussed further in Sect. 4.4 of this chapter, this has been compelled by stronger policy imperatives, backed by government support for increased monitoring, research, and protection and restoration projects in many important coastal and ocean areas. Despite this progress, major challenges remain and overall management effectiveness is limited. The key challenges lie in continued deficiencies in the policy architecture—particularly in the establishment of a strong, clear and comprehensive governance system—and an inadequate technical foundation that precludes both effective implementation of existing policies and creation of stronger policies.