Why is fishing in the South China Sea important for people in Southeast Asia?

Fishing in the South China Sea is vital to the people of Southeast Asia because the region serves as the primary source of animal protein for its densely populated communities. The sea is exceptionally rich in marine life, supported by nutrient-laden runoff from land and localized water upwellings.1

Commonly harvested species include various types of tuna, mackerel, croaker, anchovy, shrimp, and shellfish. Nearly the entire catch is consumed locally, either fresh or preserved, making it a cornerstone of regional food security.1

Beyond its nutritional importance, the sea's resources are protected under international law through the exclusive economic zone (EEZ) designation, which grants coastal states the right to manage and extract resources within 200 nautical miles of their shores. However, the region's reliance on these waters has also led to significant geopolitical friction, as various nations compete for access and control over these essential fishing grounds.23