On October 23, 2013, CNOOC (China National Offshore Oil Corporation) announced a breakthrough at its Luda 5-2 North prospect in Bohai Bay, marking a key milestone in China's offshore exploration efforts. The discovery well tested at roughly 1,040 barrels per day, revealing oil-pay zones measuring 120 meters and 85 meters thick—a strong indicator of promising reserves. This find represented more than a technical success; it showcased China's growing capability in heavy oil exploration and production, a challenging segment due to viscosity and extraction difficulties. The Bohai Bay discovery became a symbol of CNOOC's determination to expand domestic supply and reduce reliance on imported crude.