Background This archipelago - surrounded by rich fishing grounds and potentially by gas and oil deposits - is claimed in its entirety by China, Taiwan, and Vietnam, while portions are claimed by Malaysia and the Philippines. All five parties occupy certain islands or reefs.

NOTE: The information regarding Spratly Islands on this page is re-published from the 2002 World Fact Book of the United States Central Intelligence Agency. No claims are made regarding the accuracy of Spratly Islands Introduction 2002 information contained here. All suggestions for corrections of any errors about Spratly Islands Introduction 2002 should be addressed to the CIA.