How far offshore can an exclusive economic zone extend under the Law of the Sea?

Under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, a coastal state may establish an exclusive economic zone (EEZ) that extends up to 200 nautical miles (370 km) from its coast.123

Within this zone, the coastal state retains sovereign rights to explore, exploit, conserve, and manage natural resources, such as fisheries and energy production, as well as jurisdiction over artificial installations and scientific research. While the coastal state holds these specific economic rights, foreign vessels and aircraft are generally entitled to move freely through and over the zone, provided they do not interfere with the state's proprietary activities.243

In instances where the coastal borders of neighboring countries are closer than 400 nautical miles, the boundary line is typically determined by an equitable agreement, often using an equidistance line between the two coasts.23