The China Maritime Safety Administration issued a notice on Monday, December 29, 2025, announcing live-fire military exercises in six designated maritime zones scheduled for Tuesday, December 30. The drills will run from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. local time, with all vessels prohibited from entering the specified areas during this period.
The coordinates released cover waters near Fujian province and the Taiwan Strait, a critical shipping lane and geopolitical focal point. Authorities emphasized the exercises are routine and designed to ensure navigation safety, stating they align with international maritime protocols.
Analysts note the timing coincides with heightened regional security coordination among APEC members ahead of 2026 economic forecasts. While cross-strait relations remain stable, such drills are closely monitored by global shipping firms and neighboring economies due to their proximity to major trade routes.
Business leaders and maritime insurers are advised to review contingency plans for potential short-term logistics adjustments in the South China Sea corridor.
