● A new round of strategic actions to achieve breakthroughs in mineral exploration will be launched.

　　According to a comprehensive report by “Mining Industry” on September 19, the Publicity Department of the CPC Central Committee held a series of thematic press conferences titled “China in the Past Decade,” focusing on the development and achievements of natural resource endeavors in the new era. Yu Haifeng, Director-General of the Geological Exploration Management Department of the Ministry of Natural Resources, stated that in the next phase, the Ministry will work with relevant departments to launch a new round of strategic actions aimed at achieving breakthroughs in mineral exploration. These efforts will prioritize scarce and strategic resources, strengthen basic geological work, intensify exploration—especially detailed exploration—and fully leverage the roles of various market players, thereby effectively enhancing China’s capacity to secure strategic mineral resources.

　 　●The “China Mineral Resources Report (2022)” Released

　　According to a report released on September 21 by the website of the Ministry of Natural Resources, the ministry has published the “China Mineral Resources Report (2022).” The report shows that, as of the end of 2021, a total of 173 mineral types have been identified nationwide. Among these, there are 13 energy minerals, 59 metallic minerals, 95 non-metallic minerals, and 6 hydrocarbon and gas minerals. In 2021, China’s investment in geological exploration increased by 11.6%. Notably, investment in geological exploration for non-oil and gas minerals recorded positive growth for the first time since 2013. In 2021, 95 new mineral deposits were discovered nationwide. Breakthroughs were made in oil and gas exploration in several basins, including Ordos, Junggar, Tarim, Sichuan, and Bohai Bay. Significant progress was also achieved in the exploration of coal, gold, and so-called “three rare” minerals—rare earth, rare metals, and rare dispersed elements.

　　 ●Global financing for junior and mid-tier exploration companies declined by 21% month-on-month in August.

　　According to a report by S&P Global Market Intelligence on September 22: In August, global junior and mid-tier exploration companies raised $709 million in funding, a 21% decrease from July and the lowest level in 28 months. While the number of deals increased slightly from 174 in July to 186 in August. Here are the specific performance figures for various mineral types in August: Global gold mining financing totaled $265 million, down 58% month-on-month. Base metal financing reached $290 million, up 34% month-on-month. Among these, copper financing amounted to $188 million, an increase of 20% month-on-month; nickel financing reached $34 million, up 23% month-on-month. Additionally, financing for lithium and rare earth elements surged month-on-month, while graphite financing declined by 64%.