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Which mineral resources are found in Xinjiang?

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Pagoda near Tian Lake — Xinjiang Pagoda close to Tian Lake, Ürümqi, Uyghur Autonomous Region of Xinjiang, China.

Xinjiang is home to a diverse array of mineral resources that have significantly shaped the region's industrial development.

Energy Resources

Petroleum and natural gas are of national significance to China. Major extraction occurs in the Tarim Basin and the Hami Basin, as well as at Karamay and Dushanzi. Additionally, extensive coal deposits are found throughout the region, particularly along the foot of the Tien Shan range, with major mining centers located near Ürümqi and Liudaowan.123

Metallic and Other Minerals

The region contains a variety of metallic ores, including:
* Ferrous and nonferrous metals: Iron, zinc, chrome, nickel, copper, antimony, mercury, and lead.13
* Steel-strengthening minerals: Molybdenum and tungsten.13
* Precious metals: Gold is produced from both placer and lode deposits situated on the southern slopes of the Altai Mountains.1
* Industrial minerals: Phosphates are also present in commercial quantities within the high mountain areas.3