Japan and Taiwan lead surge in NSW coal demand
NSW coal exports surged by six per cent, driven by strong demand from Japan, Taiwan and South Korea.
NSW coal exports jumped by six per cent last financial year, adding nine million tonnes and reaching almost 162 million tonnes total. Japan led demand with an extra six million tonnes, now taking 71 million tonnes annually.
Taiwan increased imports of more than four million tonnes to 19.6 million, and South Korea lifted purchases by three million tonnes to eight million. Exports to China fell by about four million tonnes.
Thermal coal for power plants drove most of the increase, up six and a half per cent. Coal exports remain NSW's most valuable commodity, worth more than 26 billion dollars per year.
Port Waratah Coal Services shipped more than 100 million tonnes in the past financial year, up from 97 million the year before.
- 9 million tonnes, 6 per cent rise
- Export increase
- Almost 162 million tonnes
- Total exports
- More than 26 billion dollars
- Annual revenue
- 71 million tonnes, up 6 million
- Japan purchases
Why it mattersStrong Asian demand could pressure the government to approve pending mining projects, but it also shows coal remains a major part of the NSW economy.
AustraliaNSW coal revenues remain strong and projects awaiting approval could mean more mining jobs for the Hunter region, though the state is also diversifying into renewable energy sectors.
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 9 d ago
