China is expected to promote the use of domestic coal by tightening import rules, starting with shipments from Australia, according to analysts and traders.
After imports to the world’s second-biggest economy jumped in the first four months of the year, market participants said it was likely Beijing would impose restrictions that made it more difficult or expensive for coastal utilities to bring in thermal coal from overseas. The commodity is burnt in power stations to create electricity.
“I think they will more actively promote use of domestic coal, at least through elevated customs checks if not outright action,” said Colin Hamilton, analyst at BMO Capital Markets. “And given current relations, Australian coal is definitely the initial target.”