Objective This paper aims to elucidate the constraints impeding the enhancement of coalbed methane reserves and production in the Xinjiang region, and to formulate targeted strategies to overcome these hurdles, thereby facilitating the timely achievement of the coalbed methane industry’s objectives during the "14th Five−Year Plan".

Methods By reviewing the exploration and development conditions, current state, unresolved challenges, and achievements of coalbed methane during the "13th Five−Year Plan" in Xinjiang, alongside the development opportunities presented by policies, funding, and specialized institutions in the early to mid−period of the "14th Five−Year Plan",

Results it is believed that the misalignment in the exploration and development of thin coal seams and the utilization of coal and coalbed methane is a primary factor undermining capacity; complex geological structures present an objective constraint on efficient large−scale development in the region; inadequate attention to the comprehensive gas contribution of coal series in exploration limits single−well output; and a low degree of control over deep coalbed methane geological conditions is a direct factor restricting the increase in reserves and production.

Conclusions Drawing on domestic and international coalbed methane development experiences, Xinjiang’s exploration and development achievements, and practical insights, four strategies are proposed: firstly, the integrated exploration and extraction of thin coal seams, shale gas, tight sandstone gas, and main thick coalbed methane layers to enhance single well utilization and productivity; secondly, through data integration and in−depth research, improving the adaptation of process technology to special geological conditions to achieve engineering−geology integration and deep coalbed methane development; thirdly, creatively leveraging flexible frameworks for the low−cost enhancement of old (depleted) wells; and fourthly, adopting the concepts of "upper coal lower gas" and "gas before coal" to foster coordinated development of gas management and coalbed methane extraction. This comprehensive strategy aims to directly boost production, solve technical constraints on coalbed methane wells, conserve costs, and scientifically plan energy use, thereby swiftly revitalizing the coalbed methane industry in Xinjiang.