China’s Qairhan Salt Lake in Qinghai Province is combining industrial innovation with tourism, transforming its rich brine resources into key products while attracting growing numbers of visitors.

The country’s largest salt lake is a major producer of potash fertilizer and battery-grade lithium carbonate, using advanced extraction technologies to maximize resource efficiency and reduce environmental impact. Its annual production includes 5 million tonnes of potash fertilizer and 80,000 tonnes of lithium carbonate, supporting food security and the new energy industry.

At the same time, the lake has become a popular tourist destination, known for its emerald-green waters and unique salt landscapes. Visitor numbers have risen steadily, reaching 1.43 million in 2025, with 1.8 million expected this year.

By integrating sustainable resource development with ecotourism, Qairhan Salt Lake is emerging as both an industrial hub and a scenic attraction in northwest China.

Source: People’s Daily