China unveils multi-pronged plan to ensure steady coal production

China has rolled out a multi-pronged strategy to ensure steady coal production and secure the nation's energy supply, according to top government authorities.

The directive, jointly released by the National Development and Reform Commission, the National Energy Administration, and the National Mine Safety Administration, urged major coal-producing provinces and enterprises to make all-out efforts to stabilize output, strictly under the prerequisite of ensuring operational safety.

The notice emphasized the need for continuous monitoring and dispatching, optimizing production organization, and taking active yet prudent steps to help coal mines resume operations and reach their targeted capacity.

Furthermore, it called for accelerating the official safety acceptance of coal mines currently in joint trial operations to promote a steady rebound in overall coal output.

These coordinated efforts are designed to provide robust and reliable support for broader macroeconomic growth and national energy security, the authorities said.

To maintain market stability, the circular outlined specific requirements for the strict signing and fulfillment of medium- and long-term contracts for thermal coal, which serve as a critical ballast for domestic electricity prices.

It also highlighted the importance of leveraging imported coal as a flexible regulatory supplement to domestic supply and advancing the construction of successive coal capacity to ensure long-term industrial sustainability.

Looking ahead, relevant government departments will strengthen overall coordination and strictly guide local authorities and coal enterprises in fully implementing these deployments.