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Which mineral resources are especially important in Guizhou?

Created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.

Guizhou province possesses a wealth of mineral resources, which form the foundation of its significant extractive industries.1

Metallic Minerals

The most widespread metallic mineral in the province is mercury, for which Guizhou holds large reserves. Additionally, the province contains deposits of:1
* Manganese
* Zinc
* Lead
* Antimony
* Aluminum
* Copper
* Iron
* Gold1

Large deposits of bauxite have also been identified, particularly in the north, supporting the province's aluminum production.2

Nonmetallic Minerals

Guizhou is rich in various nonmetallic minerals that support its heavy industrial sector, including:
* Coal
* Oil shale
* Phosphate
* Gypsum
* Arsenic
* Limestone
* Fluorite1

Coal is particularly vital, serving as a primary fuel source for the province's thermal power plants and its extensive extractive and heavy industries. Furthermore, the local availability of phosphate and other raw materials has enabled the development of a robust chemical industry focused on fertilizers and other chemical products.123