Chinese mining industry: state of the art review

Abstract

The territory of the present-day People’s Republic of China is rich in mineral and energy resources which stimulate the growth of the extractive industry in the country. China is currently the world leader in the production of 31 commodities (mineral products): molybdenum, tungsten, iron, aluminum, lead, zinc, gold, coal, gypsum, bentonite, and many others. This stimulates the development of the appropriate infrastructure and training of specialists in the mining industry, the development of international links for investment and the exchange of best production practices. The purpose of this work was to study the history of exploration and extraction of natural resources, establish a domestic strategy for the development of the mining and metallurgical sector, and review leading Chinese mining and metallurgical companies. The paper reviewed key domestic processes in China which would affect the domestic and global mining and metallurgical industry. An assessment of natural resource deposits throughout the whole territory of the country was carried out with their brief description, highlighting the prime prospects, and presenting commodity reserves. The paper presents the main challenges for the mining and metallurgical industry to be met in the 14th Five-Year Plan. The development of the industry up to 2025 implies the expansion of extractive capacities with an overall reduction in dependence on imports, enhancing exploration programs, and the reduction of harmful emissions from operating enterprises, etc. Special attention is paid to publicly traded mining and metallurgical companies in China. The leaders in each sector are presented, and their brief economic indicators are given.