We have constructed three indicators to measure the maritime potential and
utilization of nations and regions. One index, named 'Maritime Potential Index
(MPI)' measures the geographical dimension of the natural resource 'proximity
to seas and oceans'. It shows the natural potential of a nation to make use of this
resource. A landlocked state has no natural potential to use maritime resources,
whereas the potential of an island state or a state with a long coast line should be
yery high. The MEI combines various typically maritime industries like fisheries,
shipping, ship building, harbours, and other economic fieJds. Whether or not the
potential is utilized, it is measured by the MAl or Or. Below, we shall describe in
greater detail, how the indices have been constructed.