China, Vietnam, and Contested Waters in the South China Sea

Chinese patrol boats once again harassed a seismic survey ship in disputed waters in the South China Sea, another sign of Beijing's increased assertiveness over sovereignty claims and opposition to unilateral exploration. Since China became a net importer of oil in 1993, it has seen a nearly double-digit growth rate in domestic demand. Preferring a bilateral approach to exploration with Chinese involvement, Beijing is not averse to using intimidation tactics to satisfy its growing energy needs.