New analysis indicates Chinese oil and gas assets have been working inside Taiwan’s EEZ, including near the Pratas Islands. The presence reportedly includes permanent jackets and some of Asia’s largest wellhead platforms.
Analysts frame the move as part of a step-by-step strategy to expand control without direct confrontation. They say commercial operations are being leveraged for strategic outcomes.
Taipei faces hurdles in challenging the activity, from limited maritime capacity to complex legal standing outside key ocean law mechanisms. These factors may explain the lack of public protest.
Observers warn that failing to object could normalize the situation and encourage more intrusive actions over time.