By hannover-web.com Recently, the Ministry of Natural Resources in China released the “2024 China Mineral Resources Report,” which highlights some significant findings. According to the report, investments in geological exploration for both oil and gas, as well as non-oil mineral resources, have seen positive growth for three consecutive years, with 124 new mineral sites discovered in 2023.
Could you elaborate on the key developments outlined in the report since the beginning of 2023?
The report emphasizes advancements in various areas, including geological surveys, mineral resource exploration and development, ecological restoration of mines, and the construction of green mines. It also covers updates on new policies and regulations regarding mineral resources management, as well as the latest moves in technology innovation and outcomes from international geological mineral cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative.
What does the report say about the current state of mineral discoveries in China?
As of the end of 2023, the report indicates that China has identified 173 types of minerals. This includes 13 energy minerals, 59 metallic minerals, 95 non-metallic minerals, and 6 water and gas resources. In 2023, there were significant breakthroughs in oil and gas exploration in major basins such as the Tarim, Junggar, and Bohai Bay, as well as important advancements in the exploration of non-oil minerals like coal, copper, gold, lithium, and phosphorus.
Can you share insights on the geological survey work conducted in 2023?
Certainly! The report reveals that the level of basic geological survey work has further improved, with significant progress in the evaluation of important mineral resources. The area geologically surveyed at a scale of 1:50,000 has reached 46.1%, with 96 target areas identified for mineral exploration. The annual evaluation of underground water resources has been completed, and work continues on geological surveys in marine areas and the deep ocean.
What trends are emerging in the mining industry according to the data provided?
The mining industry’s fixed asset investment has also experienced positive growth for three years in a row, with major mineral product supplies maintaining stability and even rising. Energy production has reached historic highs, while the energy consumption structure has been optimized. Between 2013 and 2023, coal’s share of total primary energy consumption dropped from 67.4% to 55.3%, while the proportion of clean energy rose from 10.2% to 17.9%. Efforts to conserve and utilize mineral resources efficiently continue to progress steadily.
How is China improving its mineral resource management and legal framework?
The legal and regulatory framework governing mineral resources is being further refined. The National People’s Congress has reviewed the second draft of the revised “Mineral Resources Law.” The Ministry of Natural Resources is enhancing the mechanisms for green mine construction, establishing a regular evaluation system for mineral resource development, and regulating the exploration and extraction activities of mining rights holders to foster a fair competitive market environment.
What are some notable technological achievements in the mineral resources sector?
Significant technological advancements have been made, yielding critical outcomes. China is actively promoting the implementation of national key research and development projects, continuously making breakthroughs in regional mineral formation theories and key technological equipment research. The report also cites the release of 10 national standards and 59 industry standards in the geological and mineral fields.
Finally, how is China engaging in international collaboration regarding mineral resources?
China continues to pursue international cooperation in the mineral resources field through various means, maintaining strong ties with relevant countries and international organizations. Platforms like the China International Mining Conference are used to promote practical cooperation in geological and mineral sectors, further strengthening friendly relations globally.
