Report on maritime security in the South China Sea highlights its strategic role in global trade chains.
A groundbreaking study shows that 40% of the world's shipping transits through the region, reinforcing its importance for the stability of international trade.
247 - O Global Times published this Friday (24) Report on the Safety and Development of Maritime Transport in the South China Sea (2025)This study, developed by experts from the Dalian Maritime University, is the first in the world to systematically analyze data using technology. big dataThe three main elements of maritime transport in the region are: ports, routes, and cargo.
According to the report, the South China Sea is one of the main arteries of global trade, responsible for 40% of all global shipping, 34% of maritime transport of liquefied natural gas (LNG), and 40% of crude oil transport. The study highlights that the stability of this region is directly linked to the security of global supply chains and the balance of the energy market.
Strategic importance and regional integration
The document shows that the South China Sea connects major economic zones in Asia, including China, Japan, South Korea, and ASEAN countries, as well as routes to Australia and Africa. They are 29 main ports and 14 shipping routes which make the region one of the largest transshipment hubs for containers, oil and gas in the world.
"The South China Sea has a traffic density 7,5 times higher than the Caribbean, three times higher than the Baltic Sea, and 1,5 times higher than the Mediterranean Sea," he explained. Jia Peng, executive editor of the report, to Global TimesHe further emphasized that the region is essential for international trade and global energy supply.
Free browsing and guaranteed security.
To Zhang HaiwenAccording to the former director of the Institute of Marine Development Strategy at the Chinese Ministry of Natural Resources, the report is "objective, comprehensive, and innovative." She stated that the study demonstrates that "navigation in the region is free and that maritime safety is fully guaranteed."
The survey also refutes the Western narrative about alleged "threats to freedom of navigation." On the contrary, it points out that China is a defender and contributor to regional peace and stability., playing a key role in the security of trade routes.
Civil value of Chinese facilities
The report also highlights the role of islands and reefs controlled by China, such as Yongshu and Meiji, which have significantly reduced response times in maritime rescue operations. "These infrastructures are public assets of international value, geared towards global maritime security," it stated. Jia Peng.
Global economic impact
In 2024, China accounted for almost 80% of the world's iron ore imports, a total of 1,5 billion tons. The study notes that any disruption to the South China Sea shipping routes could cause sharp fluctuations in international iron ore and steel prices.
"The South China Sea is a 'vital maritime waterway' for the transport of essential goods," he said. Kuang Haibo, who is also the executive editor of the report. “Ensuring the safety and smooth functioning of these routes is fundamental to the stability of global markets,” he added.
International cooperation and supply chain security
The document concludes that, in the face of geopolitical threats and natural disasters, Strengthen international cooperation and improve the management of routes and ports. It is essential to maintain the fluidity of global supply chains.
"Strengthening maritime cooperation is a shared responsibility of all countries that depend on global trade," Kuang stated.
