Petroleum Geology and Hydrocarbon Exploration in the Continent of China

Xiaoguang Tong

The geological structure of the continent of China, which is formed by the amalgamation of three small-sized paleocratons and their peripheral orogenic belts, is very complex. Six big sedimentary basins developed on it: four of them are composite basins on the paleocratons; the other two basins are superimposed on the orogenic belts. In addition, there are a large number of small to middle-sized non-marine sedimentary basins.

Up to now, the proved geological reserves in the continent of China are: oil, above 16 billion tons; natural gas, 1000 billion cubic meters. Last year, the annual oil output was more than 140 million tons; natural gas output reached 16 billion cubic meters.

The six big basins are still the major exploration potential area. On the other hand, a lot of small to middle-sized reservoirs will be discovered in the small to middle-sized non-marine basins and coal-bearing basins in North China. Qiang Tang Basin and coalbed gas are two favorable frontiers.

AAPG Search and Discover Article #91019©1996 AAPG Convention and Exhibition 19-22 May 1996, San Diego, California