Spratly Islands Introduction - 2023

GEOGRAPHICAL NAMES 

Background

The Spratly Islands consist of more than 100 small islands or reefs 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. Since 1985, Brunei has claimed a continental shelf that overlaps a southern reef but has not made any formal claim to the reef. Brunei claims an exclusive economic zone over this area.

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Definitions and Notes

NOTE: The information regarding Spratly Islands on this page is re-published from the 2023 World Fact Book of the United States Central Intelligence Agency and other sources. No claims are made regarding the accuracy of Spratly Islands 2023 information contained here. All suggestions for corrections of any errors about Spratly Islands 2023 should be addressed to the CIA or the source cited on each page.