South China Sea: China demands foreign vessels report before entering ‘its territorial waters’
- From Wednesday, foreign vessels must declare ship’s name, call sign, position and dangerous cargo
- It comes amid escalating tension between China and rival claimants, as well as Western nations led by the US and its expanded military presence in the region
China’s Maritime Safety Administration said that under regulations taking effect on Wednesday, vessels of foreign nationality entering China’s territorial seas must report ship and cargo information to China’s maritime administrations.
The reporting requirements applied to submersibles, nuclear vessels, ships carrying radioactive materials, ships carrying bulk oil, chemicals, liquefied gas and other toxic and harmful substances and other vessels that were considered a threat to the country’s maritime traffic safety, the administration said in a notice on Friday.
The reporting system for the vessels was included in the Maritime Traffic Safety Law when it was revised in April.
The administration’s announcement revealed further details on the reporting channel and requirements, including the foreign ship’s name, call sign, position and any dangerous goods on board.
If the vessel failed to report as required, the maritime administration would apply relevant laws, regulations, rules and provisions, it said.
The announcement comes as tensions have escalated in recent months between Beijing and rival maritime claimants, as well as Western nations led by the United States, which has expanded its military presence in the region.