Asian Demand Surge Drives Coal Exports Back Up

batubara diangkut dengan tongkang di sungai Mahakam, Samarinda, Kalimantan Timur, Indonesia. Adobe Stock/ibenk88 
Coal is transported by barge on the Mahakam River, Samarinda, East Kalimantan, Indonesia. Adobe Stock/ibenk88 

Jakarta, Beksi Energy – Despite global pressures, a buying surge from Asian countries is providing a lifeline for Indonesia’s coal exports.

After a period of export contraction, purchases from East and Southeast Asian countries have driven a temporary rebound in seaborne coal flows. The drivers: increased manufacturing activity and stock adjustments in key importing nations.

 

 

Market participants note that the demand increase is primarily regional (China, India, and several East Asian countries), pushing up prices in certain segments — signaling opportunities for exporters able to supply higher-calorific coal specifications.

However, this dynamic remains fragile: shifts in energy policy (greater reliance on renewables and nuclear power in some countries) as well as Indonesia’s domestic policies (production quotas, environmental requirements) could cap export growth in the medium term.

For suppliers, the current focus is ensuring export document compliance, logistical flexibility, and readiness for sudden demand from price-sensitive Asian markets. Buyers are advised to secure medium-term contracts to lock in supply amid emerging volatility.