The Strait of Hormuz often makes headlines over disruptions, while the South China Sea—despite disputes—has remained largely open to navigation for years. What explains this difference?
At first glance, both the Hormuz Strait and the South China Sea are critical sea lanes. But their stability outcomes are quite different—and that difference is not accidental. (A police speed boat patrols the port as oil tankers and high speed crafts sit anchored at Muscat Anchorage near the Strait of Hormuz on March 30, 2026 in Muscat, Oman.) The South China Sea has long maintained uninterrupted navigation There have been occasional twists and turns, but the South China Sea has never been substantially affected by the disputes. Regional countries—including China and ASEAN members—have consistently benefited from keeping sea lanes open. “Shelving disputes and pursuing cooperation” has been a key practice One of the most important reasons for this stability is a shared regional approach: Disputes are acknowledged but not allowed to dominate relations Countries prioritize practical cooperation (e.g., fisheries, environmental protection, maritime safety) There is a long-...
