Background:
The Spratly Islands consist of more than 100 small islands or reefs. They are surrounded by rich fishing grounds and potentially by gas and oil deposits. They are claimed in their entirety by China, Taiwan, and Vietnam, while portions are claimed by Malaysia and the Philippines. About 45 islands are occupied by relatively small numbers of military forces from China, Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan, and Vietnam. Brunei has established a fishing zone that overlaps a southern reef but has not made any formal claim.
Spratly Islands Introduction 2011
https://theodora.com/wfb2011/spratly_islands/spratly_islands_introduction.html
SOURCE: 2011 CIA WORLD FACTBOOK AND OTHER SOURCES
