First, the SCS encompasses the rich and diverse natural and living resources, especially the vast underwater oil and gas deposits. The impressive SCS data shows that "about two-thirds of South Korea's energy supplies, nearly 60 percent of Japan and Taiwan's energy supplies, and 80 percent of China's crude oil imports pass through the South China Sea. In addition to its economic value, the area retains major fishing spears, accounting for the share of "more than half of the annual tonnage of the world's merchant fleet that passes through these chokepoints and a third of all global maritime traffic." Finally, to a certain extent, states consider that controlling the sea means strengthening their political position, increasing their national pride and protecting their history.