A brief history of piracy in the South China Seas

What is it about?

Piracy has been endemic in the South China and surrounding seas for centuries. There is a long history of piracy waxing and waning depending on the political and economic situation in the region. The growth and projection of Chinese naval power to control the South China Sea to the extent of the ‘nine dash line’ has suppressed piracy on the China Coast and in the South China Sea, but had limited impact on the Straits of Malacca and the seas around Borneo and Mindanao.

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Why is it important?

The South China Sea and surrounding seas are increasingly important for economic and political reasons. Piracy is an issue that has plagued these seas and may be a factor in the projection of naval power in the region.

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