NANCHANG — New rare earth deposits have been discovered in East China’s Jiangxi province, authorities said.

A four-year geological survey in 18 cities and counties in southern Jiangxi led to the discovery of more than 10 mid-size or large deposits, according to Jiangxi’s provincial department of geology and mineral resources development.

More than 100 experts were involved in the project, which laid a solid foundation for the development and use of rare earth elements, according to the department.

Rare earth metals are vital for manufacturing high-tech products ranging from smartphones and wind turbines to electric car batteries and missiles.