Liaoning Province
Critical minerals, policy, and the energy transition
The Energy Transition in Liaoning Province
Liaoning Province, located in northeastern China, is a long-established industrial heartland now repositioning itself at the forefront of the country’s energy transition. Rich in critical minerals such as boron, iron, vanadium, nickel, copper, zinc, indium, silver, and lead, Liaoning plays a key role in supporting the technologies driving the global shift towards clean energy. These minerals are essential for battery production, renewable energy infrastructure, and advanced manufacturing. Traditionally a centre of heavy industry and steel production, Liaoning is now aligning its development strategy with China’s national carbon neutrality goals, focusing on decarbonising its industrial base, improving energy efficiency, and expanding renewable energy capacity. The province is also investing in critical mineral processing and green technology supply chains, seeking to balance its industrial legacy with the demands of a low-carbon economy. As China accelerates its energy transition, Liaoning’s resources, industrial expertise, and policy reforms position it as a strategic province shaping the future of energy and industry.
Essential minerals production and products in Liaoning Province
A provincial analysis of China’s critical minerals and policies
SFA explores the provincial frontlines of China’s strategy to secure its future in the global energy transition. As demand for critical minerals rises for electric vehicles, batteries and renewable energy, China sits at the centre of this shift as both producer and consumer. SFA examines how provincial policies, resource endowments and mining practices shape China’s critical minerals landscape. From lithium-rich Qinghai to rare earth-heavy Inner Mongolia, this province-by-province analysis reveals the challenges and opportunities driving China’s role in the future of global energy and environmental policy.


Meet the Critical Minerals team
Trusted advice from a dedicated team of experts.

Henk de Hoop
Chief Executive Officer

Beresford Clarke
Managing Director: Technical & Research

Jamie Underwood
Principal Consultant

Ismet Soyocak
ESG & Critical Minerals Lead

Rj Coetzee
Senior Market Analyst: Battery Materials and Technologies

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