Insight
South China Sea flare-up bodes ill for oil and gas operators
*Please note that this report only includes an Excel data file if this is indicated in "What's included" below
Report summary
The recent diplomatic clash between China and Vietnam over deep-water drilling in the South China Sea has important implications for oil and gas companies with interests in disputed waters. The incident suggests that China’s claims in the South China Sea include perceived rights to oil and gas resources. It could also a signal that Beijing is prepared to dissuade any new attempt to develop hydrocarbon resources within the nine-dash line by other South-East Asian governments. Beijing's use of coercion to prevent oil and gas development in the South China Sea is not new, but the threat of military action by China marks a worrying escalation. What are the key factors and risks that companies with interests in acreage within the disputed waters should consider?
Table of contents
- Executive summary:
- Hydrocarbon exploration triggers backlash from Beijing
- Beijing’s claims encompass perceived rights to oil and gas resources
- Beijing is concentrating on shaping future developments
- Threat of military reprisals raises stakes
- Key takeaways for operators
Tables and charts
This report includes the following images and tables:
- Map - South China Sea
- Hydrocarbon resources located within China's nine-dash line
What's included
This report contains:
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