China Woody Island Fresh Food Supply: Normalizing the Contested South China Sea

A 400km flight brings more than just groceries; it's bringing a permanent civilian presence to one of the world's most contested waters. According to state broadcaster Sansha TV, China has officially launched a daily fresh food supply service for residents of Woody Island in the Paracel Islands.

Inside the China Woody Island Fresh Food Supply Chain

On January 6, 2026, a flight carrying fresh fruit, vegetables, and meat landed on Woody Island—known as Yongxing Island in Chinese. The goods are purchased daily from Hainan Island and flown from Haikou to the archipelago, significantly reducing transit time. Local supermarket manager Fu Shipeng told reporters that the service helps preserve freshness for the island's growing population.

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Expanding Sansha's Footprint

Woody Island serves as the administrative hub for Sansha, China's southernmost city. By the end of 2024, the city had a permanent population of around 2,200 civilians. Notably, over 98% of these residents are under 65 years old. While Beijing continues to bolster infrastructure, the Paracel Islands remain a subject of intense territorial disputes with neighbors like Vietnam.