Abstract: Jiuquan-Minle foredeep zone, covering an area of 19,0000 km², and with a thickness of sedimentary sequences up to 7,000 m or more, consists of three sedimentary basins,i.e. Jiuxi,Jiudong,and Minle basins. Large reserves of oil and gas have been found already in Jiuxi basin. Based on the data obtained recently and the experiences derived from expiorating practice in Jiuxi basin, three types of oil-bearing combination and five aspects of oil exploration are determined for the Jiuquan-Minle foredecp zone. Reserves initially in place of Jiuxi basin has been proved to be 160,000 ton per cubic kilometer of source rock. The relative high potential confirms tbat further prospecting of this region should be considered.