China Announces Major Mineral Exploration Breakthroughs

Highlights

• China discovers the world’s first large, ultra-shallow gas field in ultra-deep waters with over 100 billion cubic meters of gas.
• Ministry of Natural Resources identifies:
  • 10 new oil fields
  • 19 gas fields
  • 10 large uranium deposits
• A strategic resource campaign aims to secure critical energy and industrial resources for national economic stability.

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China has achieved significant milestones in its ongoing mineral exploration campaign, initiated in 2021, according to the Ministry of Natural Resources. At a recent press conference, officials announced the discovery of the world’s first large, ultra-shallow gas field located in ultra-deep waters, with an estimated original gas in place (OGIP) exceeding 100 billion cubic meters.

The campaign has also identified 10 new oil fields, each with predicted geological reserves of over 100 million tonnes and 19 gas fields with OGIPs above 100 billion cubic meters. In addition, China has discovered 10 large uranium deposits, significantly boosting its uranium resource base. Major advancements were also made in prospecting for copper, aluminum, iron, and other bulk minerals.

Xiong Zili, a Ministry of Natural Resources official, emphasized the country’s need for a stable energy supply. He noted that as the world’s largest energy producer and consumer, China’s energy resources are vital to sustaining the national economy, improving livelihoods, and achieving ecological progress.

Published in China Daily (opens in a new tab), a state-owned outlet, as well as other outlets in the Asian nation, the report reflects China’s strategic focus on securing resources critical to energy and industrial development, ensuring both economic stability and global competitiveness in these sectors.  Not all data should be verified by multiple sources.