China's raw coal output reached 1.77 billion metric tons in the first half of this year, representing a year-on-year increase of 13%, according to statistics released by the China National Coal Association, sources reported. During the period from January to June, China's coal sales volume reached 1.71 billion metric tons, 14% more than a year ago.
As of the end of June this year, China's coal stocks reached 221 million metric tons, 1.8% or 4 million metric tons more than at the beginning of this year. The China National Coal Association said in a statement that coal stocks of the country's key power providers can be used for 17 days.
China's coal imports amounted to 70.49 million metric tons in the first half of 2011, 11.8% less than in the corresponding period of 2010, according to the latest statistics released by the General Customs Administration. However, average import price of the fuel rose 11.9% year on year to US$109.6 per metric ton during the period.
In June, China imported 13.61 million metric tons of coal, slightly more than the 13.57 million metric tons imported in May.