Using data, including 10,000m logging results, researchers have developed Asia’s first 10,000m geological profile. Credit: Zotyesz/Shutterstock.  

China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC) has announced the completion of the Shendi Take-1 well, achieving a depth of 10,910m.

This milestone reportedly establishes it as Asia’s deepest vertical well and the world’s second-deepest.

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The Shendi Take-1 drilling project signifies China’s first 10,000m scientific exploration well.

The well is situated in the Tarim Basin in Shaya County, Aksu prefecture, Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region.

It has not only produced China’s first 10,000m core but also the world’s first onshore oil and gas discovery at this depth.

The project has set five engineering records, including the fastest global onshore drilling beyond 10,000m.

Drilling of the well commenced on 30 May 2023 and was completed on 20 February 2025.

The initiative was aimed at enabling geology and engineering exploration at a depth of 10,000m, using breakthrough technologies to provide crucial data for geoscience research focusing on the Earth’s internal structure.

The 10,000m core, dating back 540 million years, offers vital evidence for studying Earth’s evolution, with experts equating its significance to lunar soil.

Using data including 10,000m logging results, researchers have developed Asia’s first 10,000m geological profile, offering insights into Earth’s deep “oil and gas code”.

In a related development, Petronas and CNPC signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) in November last year for integrated sustainable energy solutions.

The MOU was signed at the CNPC International Cooperation Forum during the 7th China International Import Expo, which supports open, inclusive, balanced and mutually beneficial globalisation, aligning with Petronas’ global strategy.

The collaboration aims to strengthen partnerships in upstream exploration and production of oil and gas internationally, as well as the liquefied natural gas value chain.

The MOU will also focus on ventures in advanced sectors like specialty chemicals, renewable energy, green hydrogen technology, and carbon capture, utilisation and storage.