Beijing Issues Ecological Report to Solidify South China Sea Claims Amid U.S. Row

China has published ecological assessment reports for nine disputed features in the South China Sea, a move that intensifies its territorial row with the United States. The Ministry of Natural Resources’ South China Sea Bureau released its 2025 marine ecological early-warning and monitoring bulletin, along with a marine ecological protection and restoration report for the region.

These reports, though not fully public, represent what the ministry calls the "first comprehensive assessment" of ecological conditions across the Paracels (Xisha Islands), Spratlys (Nansha Islands), Macclesfield Bank, and surrounding reefs. The bulletin specifically details the ecological status of nine islands and reefs, intended to guide their classified protection and management.

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The bulletin particularly highlighted the actual ecological conditions of nine of those islands and reefs, providing a basis for the classified protection and management of the island ecosystems

The releases occur amid heightened territorial disputes, with China leveraging environmental protection initiatives to consolidate its control. The U.S. State Department has criticized these actions, specifically rejecting China's designation of Scarborough Shoal (Huangyan Island) as a "national nature reserve." Washington views this as a tactic by Beijing to further its territorial claims.

China's strategy appears to involve using environmental declarations to assert sovereignty and control over contested maritime areas. The ecological reports serve as a basis for managing these island ecosystems, potentially legitimizing China's presence and activities in the strategically vital South China Sea.

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characterising it as an attempt by Beijing to advance its territorial ambitions