The nature of subduction system in the Neoarchean: Magmatic records from the northern Yangtze Craton, South China

•TTG, calc-alkaline mafic-intermediate rocks and A-type granite were produced coevally at 2.65–2.70 Ga in the Yangtze Craton.•These igneous rocks record subduction in the cratonic margin and extension in the interior.•Subduction style in the Neoarchean differs from modern one in both magmatism and geodynamics.•Both subducting crust and mantle wedge are partially melted in the Neoarchean subduction system.•The Neoarchean subduction is not continuous but intermittent.