China Becomes World's Second-Largest Holder of Lithium Reserves

CNChina|

China has significantly increased its lithium reserves, now controlling 16.5% of global lithium resources, placing it behind only Chile, according to the state news agency Xinhua. The nation previously held an estimated 6% of global reserves but has tripled its holdings due to new discoveries and advanced extraction technologies.

A major find is a 1,740-mile spodumene belt located in Tibet, which could potentially contain upwards of 30 million tons of lithium. Additionally, explorations of salt lakes on the Tibetan Plateau are expected to reveal over 14 million tons of lithium, ranking as the third-largest of its kind globally.

Chinese researchers have also improved extraction methods, particularly for lepidolite, aiming to unlock an additional 10 million tons in provinces like Jiangxi. This expansion in lithium resources is essential for China's booming new energy sector, particularly for electric vehicle batteries, as the country accounted for 76% of global lithium-ion battery production capacity in 2022.

As China reduces its reliance on imported lithium, the discoveries are expected to alleviate production costs and stimulate the domestic lithium industry while also addressing the environmental challenges linked to lithium mining.

Weekly Newsletter

Loading...

More from China

China Claims Hypersonic Missiles Can Strike Anywhere in 30 Minutes

Chinese scientists have reportedly developed hypersonic missiles capable of reaching any location on Earth within 30 minutes, according to a study published in the academic journal Acta Aeronautica et Astronautica Sinica. These advanced missiles, equipped with a re-entry glide vehicle, can travel at speeds of up to Mach 20, or approximately 13,000 kilometers per hour. This technological leap is expected to have significant implications for global defense dynamics, as hypersonic weapons are designed to evade traditional detection systems. The design of these weapons allows for rapid and unpredictable directional changes, which poses challenges for existing air defense methods. Major powers, including the United States and the United Kingdom, are investing heavily in hypersonic technology, with various developmental programs and tests underway. India is also advancing its capabilities, having tested its own hypersonic missile systems, such as the BrahMos-2, which aims to maintain strategic parity with China. As countries worldwide race to develop hypersonic missiles, the potential shift in military power balances remains a pressing concern for global security analysts.
CNChina

China Claims Development of Hypersonic Missiles Capable of Global Strikes in 30 Minutes

Chinese scientists have reportedly developed hypersonic missiles that can strike any location on Earth within 30 minutes, based on a recent publication in the academic journal Acta Aeronautica et Astronautica Sinica. These missiles are equipped with a re-entry glide vehicle (RGV) capable of traveling at speeds up to Mach 20, or approximately 13,000 kilometers per hour, allowing for rapid changes in direction that complicate detection by traditional defense systems. The advancement follows India's successful Operation Sindoor, where the BrahMos missile penetrated Pakistani defense systems, highlighting the evolving dynamics in global defense technology. Major powers, including the United States and Britain, are also advancing in hypersonic technology, with an expected readiness date for their joint project in 2030. India is progressing in this domain as well, having tested its own hypersonic missile technology and actively developing the BrahMos-2 missile. Experts assert that despite having advanced air defense systems, India must bolster its capabilities to address the challenges posed by these emerging hypersonic threats.
CNChina

Sudden Storm Capsizes Tourist Boats in China, Leaving 10 Dead

A sudden storm caused four tourist boats to capsize in Guizhou province, China, on May 5, resulting in the tragic deaths of ten people, according to state broadcaster CCTV. Over 80 individuals were thrown into the Wu River as strong winds and hail struck the scenic area during a busy national holiday. Initial reports mentioned only two boats capsizing, but officials later confirmed that four were involved, with two containing no passengers. The seven crew members on these boats managed to save themselves. Approximately 70 people were treated for injuries, most of which were minor. Chinese President Xi Jinping has ordered extensive rescue efforts and emphasized the need for improved safety precautions at tourist sites following a series of accidents. Eyewitnesses noted that while some managed to swim to safety, the storm appeared abruptly, shrouding the river in mist. The boats involved had a capacity of around 40 passengers each and were reportedly not overloaded at the time of the incident.
CNChina
All China News ->