The Xiangyuan mine is a large, lithium-containing polymetallic mine rarely seen in China. The hard-rock mine contains low-grade lithium resources. Associated minerals include rubidium, cesium, tungsten, and tin. The mine has porphyry mineralization characteristics, primarily dominated by albitization with almost whole-rock mineralization. The ore body, a single massive columnar structure, is shallowly buried, making it amenable to open-pit mining. Significant mineralization anomalies are observed in the deep and peripheral zones, indicating considerable potential for further increases in resources.

The mine is to be developed through large-scale, open-pit mining with a planned throughput of 10 million tonnes per annum. The annual production is set at 60,000-70,000 tonnes of LCE with by-products including rubidium, tungsten, and tin, among others. A lithium smelter will be constructed for the mine. As a first step, the mine will re-commission its existing 300Ktpa extraction and concentration system. With more resources upgraded to reserves, the mine could increase the throughput capacity to 15Mtpa. The mine will be built in phases in line with the progress of license and permit handling.

The project aims to build a green, low-carbon, and sustainable mining operation, incorporating wind and solar power generation along with energy storage systems.

Zijin Mining acquired a 100% interest in the Xiangyuan Lithium-containing Polymetallic Mine through two transactions in 2022 and 2023.