The South-South Ocean Accounting Exchange was a high-level technical event designed to accelerate the adoption of ocean accounting to support sustainable development across the Global South. Held from 30 March to 1 April 2026 in Bogor, Indonesia, the Exchange’s primary purpose was to foster collaboration among practitioners and policymakers to measure ocean wealth and move "beyond GDP". 

Key objectives included identifying practical barriers, such as data fragmentation and capacity gaps, while aligning technical support with the national priorities of ocean-dependent economies. 

The event was organized by Indonesia's Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries, IPB University, and the Rekam Nusantara Foundation, with technical support from the Global Ocean Accounts Partnership (GOAP) and funding from the UK Government’s Blue Planet Fund. Participation featured practitioners and decision-makers from over 23 countries, including the IORA Secretariat and delegates from six IORA Member States: Indonesia, Kenya, Madagascar, Malaysia, Mozambique, and Sri Lanka. 

The program featured intensive technical clinics, panel discussions, and sessions where countries presented preliminary ocean accounts. Discussions centered on the UN System of Environmental-Economic Accounting (SEEA EA) framework and how these accounts can support marine spatial planning, blue carbon policy, and reporting for Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). A core focus was the role of ocean accounting in connecting ecosystem services to capital, ensuring data serves as a pipeline for nature-based investments. 

The main outcome was the presentation of the Bogor Strategic Action Plan, which outlines five key action areas to close implementation gaps and strengthen regional governance. This event is directly relevant to IORA’s Blue Economy workplan, contributing to regional cooperation by providing the evidence-based tools necessary for inclusive economic growth and the sustainable management of marine resources across the Indian Ocean.