'Open your eyes': Why China's sixth Antarctic base is raising concerns

China is set to construct its sixth Antarctic research station in Marie Byrd Land, a remote area of the continent's west. This move has raised concerns, particularly among independent senator Jacqui Lambie, who questions Australia's defense priorities. China asserts there is no geopolitical motive behind the station, stating it will focus on climate change, ice sheet research, and marine systems.

The United States, Australia, and Russia all have significant Antarctic presence, but China's development is seen as a symbol of its growing influence. Jiliang Chen, an Antarctic law and governance lecturer, believes the new station is a display of China's strength in this strategic game. The Antarctic Treaty System allows for a new station without veto power from member states. However, Chen emphasizes that a physical presence helps consolidate China's role in future decisions on the continent.

One concern is that equipment used for civilian research can easily be adapted for military use, making inspection and transparency crucial. Elizabeth Buchanan, a senior fellow at the Australian Strategic Policy Institute, warns that China's growing network of stations could lead to a situation where it operates across Antarctica without depending on other countries. The Antarctic Treaty prohibits military bases, weapons, and new territorial claims, but Buchanan fears this could change.

China's embassy in Canberra maintains compliance with the Antarctic Treaty. However, Tony Press, former head of the Australian Antarctic Division, believes fears of mining and military activities are overstated due to the harsh conditions. Instead, Press sees China's move as a geopolitical statement, demonstrating its growing interest in the continent.

Analysts suggest China is becoming influential without violating rules. China joined the Antarctic Treaty later, in 1983, and its interest in Antarctic fishing is evident through its involvement in the Commission for the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources (CCAMLR). China is also developing a nuclear-powered icebreaker, reducing its reliance on gateway ports like Hobart.

The country's five-year plan prioritizes high-seas fisheries, including polar fisheries. However, China has been known to oppose new marine protected areas, often citing insufficient scientific evidence or arguing that conservation measures address symptoms rather than the root cause of climate change.