TAIPEI, Taiwan — Taiwan's Coast Guard says Chinese patrol vessels have harassed shipping off the island's east coast as Beijing expands its maritime operations in waters claimed by Taipei.

In statements reported November 1, Taiwanese authorities said two Chinese Coast Guard vessels were involved in the latest patrol and that Taiwan sent its own ships to monitor their movements. Taipei rejected Beijing's assertion of jurisdiction in the area.

Taiwanese security officials have warned that overlapping military and coast-guard patrols could be rehearsals for a possible blockade. The island's eastern sea routes are particularly important because they could provide access to supplies in a crisis.

China regards Taiwan as part of its territory, while Taiwan's government rejects Beijing's sovereignty claims. The latest dispute underscores the continuing risk of maritime confrontation across the region.