- China’s drilling in Taiwan waters involves 12 rigs and vessels, some positioned near the Pratas Islands.
- The project reflects Beijing’s greyzone tactics and intensifies regional security concerns.
China’s drilling in Taiwan waters has triggered rising concerns over sovereignty, maritime rights, and regional security. Between July and August, at least 12 drilling vessels and permanent offshore structures were detected inside Taiwan’s zone. In addition, some installations were positioned less than 50km from the restricted border near the Pratas Islands.
Experts argue that the activity reflects Beijing’s “greyzone” strategy. Consequently, this approach uses commercial projects to reinforce territorial claims. In 2016, The Hague declared China’s sweeping South China Sea claims unlawful. Nevertheless, Beijing continues to reject the ruling while simultaneously asserting greater control.
Taiwan has not formally protested, though it usually enforces its maritime boundaries. As a result, analysts warn that silence risks normalising encroachment. Furthermore, research from the Jamestown Foundation tied the structures to China’s state-owned National Offshore Oil Corporation (CNOOC). The study also found that some assets had remained in place for over five years.
Beijing regards Taiwan as a province and consistently prepares for eventual annexation. Therefore, experts caution that offshore rigs and jackets could serve dual purposes. They might support blockades, coercion, or even military invasions.
Taipei faces significant obstacles in responding. Since its exclusion from the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea blocks legal arbitration, options remain limited. Moreover, domestic laws enforcing the exclusive economic zone (EEZ) are unclear. In addition, Taiwan’s naval capabilities cannot match China’s strength. Bonnie Glaser of the German Marshall Fund suggested Taiwan had underestimated the extent of these incursions.
CNOOC portrays itself as a leading global energy company. However, its leaders once described rigs as “mobile national territory.” Meanwhile, Beijing maintains that the exploration addresses urgent energy needs while protecting claimed interests.
Neighbouring states also face related disputes. Recently, Japan accused China of placing 21 rigs inside its exclusive economic zone. These moves highlight how Beijing’s ambitions fuel tensions across East Asia.
Ultimately, experts argue that China’s drilling in Taiwan waters is not only about energy. It represents Beijing’s long-term strategy to weaken Taipei’s control and reshape the regional balance.