South China Sea code of conduct at risk of becoming toothless as 2026 deadline nears

Analysts warn the long-delayed South China Sea code of conduct may end up as a weak, non-binding agreement as China and ASEAN states struggle to reconcile competing territorial claims by the end of 2026. The pact, mooted for over three decades, remains gridlocked over balancing claims among China, Malaysia, Vietnam, Brunei, and the Philippines. The outcome will shape regional stability and maritime order in a critical waterway.