The demand for metals like gold and silver is rising globally due to industrial needs and economic factors. China has long been striving to establish a stronghold in mineral production and supply on the international stage. Despite leading the global gold market, China’s recognition and production of gold mines lag behind countries like South Africa, Australia, and Russia. Interestingly, China contributes about 10% to the world’s gold production. Last year, China produced 377 tons of gold, according to the China Gold Association. Earlier, industry estimates suggested only 3,000 tons of gold remained in Chinese mines. However, with advanced technology and AI applications, China is achieving remarkable results in mineral exploration.
Recently, China announced the discovery of over 1,444 tons of gold reserves in Liaoning Province. In November, more than 1,000 tons of gold were identified near the Kunlun Mountains. This was the third-largest gold reserve announced by China in the past year, surpassing 1,000 tons. Previously, scientists discovered nearly 1,000 metric tons of high-quality gold in Pingxiang County, Hunan Province, valued at over INR 7 lakh crore. Shandong Province plays a crucial role in China’s gold exploration efforts, housing one of the world’s top three gold mine belts in the Jiaodong Peninsula.
China’s success in identifying new mines is attributed to its unique deep-earth technology capabilities. Using AI technology, ground-penetrating radar, and satellite technology, China recently discovered a new mineral named “Jinshiyuit”. Recognized by the International Mineral Association, this mineral is significant for battery, chemical, and aerospace industries.
For the first time, China identified gold deposits under the sea, with reserves exceeding 3,900 tons. This discovery accounts for 26% of China’s total gold reserves and stands as the largest gold mine in Asia to date. According to reports, these deposits are near Yantai City in Shandong Province, beneath the Laizhou Coast. If gold extraction from these reserves is successful, Laizhou could become China’s largest gold reserve and production area. Experts suggest that China’s new gold mines could position it as a key player in determining gold prices globally.
