China Coast Guard (CCG) vessels lawfully expelled a Japanese fishing boat that entered waters near the Diaoyu Dao on March 16, 2026, according to an official statement released Tuesday. The CCG stated it took necessary administrative measures and issued warnings to ensure compliance with Chinese maritime law.
"Diaoyu Dao and its affiliated islands are China's inherent territory," the CCG emphasized, urging Japanese authorities to cease "rights-violation and provocative acts" in the area. The incident marks the latest development in ongoing maritime tensions between the two nations.
The CCG reaffirmed its commitment to conducting regular rights-protection operations around the Diaoyu Dao, underscoring China's resolve to safeguard sovereignty and maritime interests. Analysts suggest the move aligns with broader regional efforts to reinforce maritime governance amid rising geopolitical sensitivities in East Asia.
