Understanding the China-Vietnam Dispute in the South China Sea

1. What is the main issue between China and Vietnam in the South China Sea?

The dispute centers on territorial claims over the Spratly Islands, a group of reefs and features in the South China Sea. Both countries claim sovereignty and are building artificial islands and military infrastructure to strengthen their positions.

2. What recent actions has Vietnam taken?

In 2025, Vietnam expanded dredging and landfill work on multiple reefs, transforming them into artificial islands. It has created new structures such as munitions storage, administrative buildings, and possibly a new airstrip at Barque Canada Reef.

3. How has China responded to Vietnam’s expansion?

China declared that the Spratlys are its “inherent territory” and firmly opposed Vietnam’s activities on what it considers illegally occupied reefs. Beijing has vowed to defend its maritime rights and territorial sovereignty.

4. Why are the Spratly Islands significant?

The Spratlys are strategically located in the South China Sea, a vital trade route. They are also believed to hold rich fishing grounds and potential reserves of oil and natural gas, making them highly contested.

5. What role does reclamation play in this dispute?

Reclamation allows countries to convert reefs and small features into larger artificial islands. Vietnam’s recent reclamation ensures that it can expand its presence to nearly match, or even surpass, the scale of China’s earlier island-building activities.

6. Has the international community reacted to Vietnam’s actions?

According to reports, there has been little public response from other countries, including China, though Vietnam has filed diplomatic protests. China’s attention has also been focused on confrontations with the Philippines.

7. What diplomatic steps has Vietnam taken?

Vietnam continues to assert its sovereignty through official protests and diplomatic channels, avoiding direct confrontation with China but opposing both Beijing’s and Manila’s activities that threaten its claims.

8. Which specific reefs and islands are involved in Vietnam’s expansion?

• Alison Reef
• Collins Reef
• East Reef
• Landsdowne Reef
• Petley Reef
• Amboyna Cay
• Grierson Reef
• West Reef