Beijing maintains expansionist tendencies
China has not lost its interest in oil and gas assets around the South China Sea
China has not been distracted from its assertive agenda in the South China Sea despite its domestic focus on combating Covid-19. It continues to deploy oil and gas vessels and military muscle to bolster its position in the strategically vital region. The major focus of China’s obstructive role in the area is where its claims overlap with both Malaysia and Vietnam, neither particularly friendly towards Beijing. Malaysian national oil company (NOC) Petronas is exploring in blocks ND1 and ND2, which are in waters also claimed by the Vietnamese and within China’s so-called nine-dash line boundary. The Chinese elbowing into the bilateral dispute is described by US-based thinktank the Asia Mari
Also in this section
11 February 2026
Panellists from three LNG buyers at LNG2026 in Doha outlined their evolving procurement strategies as they navigate heightened market volatility
11 February 2026
North African producer plans to boost output by early 2030, with Europe its number one priority as export destination
11 February 2026
Maritime leaders at LNG2026 warned of the dangers of over-regulation on competitiveness, sustainability and innovation
10 February 2026
The country has opened bidding on 50 blocks in a new licensing round but will face competition for attention and will need to address concerns about security and legislation
