An exclusive economic zone refers to the oceanic region located beyond a nation’s territorial sea, extending up to 200 nautical miles from the baseline. Within this zone, the country possesses specific jurisdiction for economic activities. Consequently, they are entitled to the exploration and utilization of the area’s natural resources, including fish and oil.
An Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) refers to a designated area of ocean that stretches up to 200 nautical miles from a country’s coastline. Within this zone, the country possesses special privileges to explore, exploit, and oversee the natural resources present in the water and on the ocean floor. These resources encompass fish, oil, gas, and minerals. For instance, Canada exercises its EEZ in the Arctic Ocean to regulate the fishing industry and conduct oil and gas exploration in that region. Similarly, Australia maintains an EEZ surrounding its coastline, granting them authority over the natural resources within the Great Barrier Reef. Another example is the United States’ EEZ, which encompasses a vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean around Hawaii. This zone enables the US to manage fishing activities and safeguard marine life in that area. These examples demonstrate how countries utilise their Exclusive Economic Zones to effectively manage and safeguard the ocean’s natural resources. By exerting control over these areas, countries can ensure the sustainable utilization of these resources for the benefit of their citizens.
An EEZ is a maritime zone extending 200 nautical miles from a coastal state’s baseline, within which the state has special rights to explore, exploit, and manage the natural resources in the water column and on the seabed.
Almost all coastal states have an EEZ, including the United States, Canada, Australia, China, Japan, and many others.
Coastal states have the exclusive right to explore and exploit the natural resources in their EEZ, including fishing, oil and gas exploration, and seabed mining.
Other countries can access resources in an EEZ only with the permission of the coastal state.
No, a coastal state cannot restrict navigation in its EEZ, but it can regulate and control activities related to navigation, such as fishing and oil exploration.
Yes, a coastal state can claim an extended continental shelf beyond 200 nautical miles if it can prove that the shelf is a natural prolongation of its land territory.
Yes, a coastal state can share its EEZ with another country through a bilateral or multilateral agreement.
A coastal state can lose its EEZ if it fails to exercise its rights and duties in accordance with international law.
Yes, a coastal state can enforce its laws in its EEZ, including its environmental, fishing, and maritime safety laws.
Yes, a coastal state can sue another country for violating its EEZ in an international court or tribunal.
This site contains general legal information but does not constitute professional legal advice for your particular situation. Persuing this glossary does not create an attorney-client or legal adviser relationship. If you have specific questions, please consult a qualified attorney licensed in your jurisdiction.
This glossary post was last updated: 17th April 2024.
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