This paper is the result of mineral exploration engineering.

Objective Gypsum is one of the dominant nonmetallic minerals with large reserves and wide distribution in China, and its application is very wide. It is significant to summarize and analyse the distribution, source, application and prospect of Chinese gypsum for sustainable use.

Methods Starting from the types, temporal and spatial distribution and application of gypsum deposits, this paper summarizes the previous research results and collects relevant data, systematically combs the resource reserves and mine output of gypsum in China, and provides the background knowledge for searching for new gypsum deposits.

Results In 2022, the retained reserves of gypsum resources in China will be 1.758 billion tons, with the largest reserves in Anhui Province. The deposit types are sedimentary, epigenetic and hydrothermal gypsum and anhydrite deposits, among which sedimentary deposits are the main ones. China's gypsum resources are mainly used in building materials, industry, agriculture and medical industries. The regeneration and utilization of gypsum can help alleviate the tense situation of gypsum resources in our country. However, the problems caused by the use of industrial by−product gypsum can not be ignored, so we should also pay attention to the development, utilization and protection of natural gypsum.

Conclusions The formation of gypsum deposits is mainly controlled by climate, provenance and structure. Closed and semi-closed basins, arid and semi-arid climatic conditions and sufficient materials promote the formation of gypsum deposits. Qilian metallogenic belt, Tianshan−Beishan metallogenic belt, West Kunlun Altun metallogenic belt and middle and lower Yangtze metallogenic belt are important metallogenic prospect areas of gypsum in China.