Abstract: The porphyry deposits as an important exploration target are not the products originated from typical island-arc volcanism.The metallogenic tectonic settings of porphyry deposits consist of the plate convergent margin,continental transform plate boundary,and intracontinental orogenic and anorogenic settings.The present paper gives a general review of the metallogenic tectonic settings of porphyry deposits including the plate convergent margin and continental transform plate boundary,and their exploration significance.The structural variations may serve as a trigger for the formation of the porphyry deposits,and slight and moderate transpressional stress may be most favourable for the concentration,ascent and emplacement of magmas from the lower crust.The magmatic intrusion tends to occur within or around the broad transpressional fault zones.For mineral exploration strategies in southwestern China,particular attention is drawn to the regional strike-slip fault zone,with the emphasis on the Xianshuihe-Xiaojiang fault as potential prospects.