China Seeks Compensation After Taiwan Navy Ship Collides With Chinese Vessel

China has demanded financial compensation from Taiwan after a Taiwanese navy landing ship collided with a Chinese fishing boat in the Taiwan Strait late last month.

According to the Taiwanese navy, the incident occurred shortly after midnight on March 27, 2025.

The navy ship, Chung Ho, struck the Chinese trawler Minlianyu 61756 around 45 nautical miles (83 kilometres) from Taichung Port. This location is about nine nautical miles outside Taiwan’s restricted waters.

A spokesperson for China’s Taiwan Affairs Office said that the fishing boat was anchored at the time of the crash.

As per the preliminary findings shared by the spokesperson, the Chinese vessel had its automatic identification system (AIS) switched on, along with its warning lights.

The spokesperson also claimed that the Taiwanese warship was not using its AIS or warning lights when the collision occurred, adding that the fault lies completely with the Taiwanese ship.

The statement also criticised the crew of the navy vessel for showing poor attitude and for refusing to take responsibility after the accident.

In response to China’s demand, Taiwan’s navy confirmed that an investigation is being carried out by the country’s coast guard.

It stated that once the investigation concludes, the matter will be addressed through the existing cross-strait consultation mechanism and necessary procedures.

No comments were made by the Taiwanese side.

The Taiwan Strait, where the incident took place, is often a site for regular military movements by both China and Taiwan.

Relations between the two governments remain tense, with China continuing to claim Taiwan as part of its territory.

Meanwhile, Taiwan strongly rejects these claims and maintains its democratic governance.

The Chinese military recently conducted two days of war games around Taiwan, which included long-range live-fire drills in the East China Sea.

Beijing described the exercises as a reaction to what it called “provocative actions” by Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te.

President Lai, who won the election last year, has often been labeled a “separatist” by Chinese authorities.

Reference: Reuters

Source: Maritime Shipping News