China's position on the Hormuz Strait: What 'open' really means

China views ‘open’ in the context of the Strait of Hormuz as encompassing trade and financial exchange, not just transit, and is open to regional transit fees. While expressing willingness to accept a fee-based mechanism, China prefers a completely fee-free system. Concerned about potential US military leverage and energy security, China opposes Chapter VII resolutions authorizing force against Iran.