The Chinese Academy of Geological Sciences (CAGS), the largest comprehensive and multidisciplinary institution of geological sciences in China, was founded in 1956. It deals with the studios of basic geology, mineral geology, hydrogeology, engineering geology, environmental geology, karst geology, rock and mineral analytical techniques, exploring techniques and multipurpose utilization of mineral resources and is engaged in research, development and field investigation survey in the realm of exploration geophysics and exploration geochemistry. The main goals of CAGS are as follows: studying and solving major issues arising from geological prospecting, national economic construction, social development and geological scientific and technological development; training senior geoscientists; and providing the service to the national economic construction.

　　The Academy has 11 affiliated institutes, such as Institute of Geology, Institute of Mineral Resources, Institute of Geomechanics, Institute of Hydrogeology and Environmental Geology, Institute of Hydrogeology and engineering Geology Techniques, Institute of Geophysical and Geochemical Exploration, Institute of Karst Geology, Institute of Rock and Minerals Analysis, Chengdu Institute of Multipurpose Utilization of Mineral Resources, Zhengzhou Institute of Multipurpose Utilization of Mineral Resources, Institute of Exploration Technique, Institute of Exploration Technology, and several tens of advanced laboratories with more than 10,000 apparatuses and installations of various kinds.

　　The Chinese Academy of Geological Sciences is very active in international exchanges and cooperation of geosciences. Since 1980s, the Academy has cooperated with the research institutes, universities, and geological surveys of more than 40 countries and regions.