China Geological Survey also shared progress in lithium exploration
China discovers huge uranium deposit in Ordos Basin. China has announced the discovery of a significant uranium deposit in the Jingchuan area of the Ordos Basin in the country’s northwestern region. The China Geological Survey, under the Ministry of Natural Resources, revealed that the find is poised to substantially increase the country’s uranium resources and bolster its security in this critical area.
The newly discovered deposit is noted as the first ultra-large uranium reserve found in a region dominated by aeolian sandstone, a unique geological formation. This type of landform is also found in other resource-rich regions of China, including the Tarim, Junggar, and Songliao basins. This discovery is being hailed as a major milestone in the exploration of new uranium mines, especially since China launched its strategic actions aimed at achieving breakthroughs in mineral exploration.
In addition to the uranium discovery, the China Geological Survey also shared progress in lithium exploration. China has increased its global share of lithium reserves from 6% to 16.5%, propelling the nation from sixth to second in global rankings. The country’s recent lithium discoveries include a 2,800-kilometer lithium belt in the western region, which contains proven reserves exceeding 6.5 million tons and holds potential for more than 30 million tons. China has also become the world’s third-largest hub for salt lake lithium resources, following Argentina, Bolivia, and Chile.
These developments represent a significant step forward in China’s efforts to secure critical resources for its rapidly expanding new energy industry.