At the moment China’s coal production is caught between a buoyant domestic coal market and the push to increase exports to international destinations. In contrast with earlier predictions, export volumes have risen further in 2003.

At the same time an expanding market for imported coking coal is now emerging as China’s coal producers struggle to satisfy the soaring raw material needs of the burgeoning steel industry. China’s steel output has doubled in the four years since 1998, to more than 200MT, and is forecast to surpass that of Japan and the US’s combined steel production. Another 50MT of capacity is expected to come online by 2005.

China’s power sector, which only a few years ago was concerned about a glut of electricity, has been rationing power as demand soars by about 15% per annum, primarily led by the steel sector and other power-hungry industries. Coal continues to provide 75% of China’s generating capacity.

Highlights of the conference include presentations by top executives from China's leading coal, power and steel companies, analysis of China's electricity reforms and the effect on coal operations, China's burgeoning steel industry and the growth of coking coal imports, and transport logistical developments

Keynote papers will include an address from Wu Yin, Deputy Director General, National Development and Reform Commission, discussing Prospects for China’s Coal Industry within the new energy environment.

Chen Biting, Chairman, Shenhua Group Corporation will outline Shenhua’s strategy for dynamic growth in today’s markets.

Zhang Chonghui, Director General, Shanxi Coal Industry Bureau will provide an overview on the Shanxi Province, China’s largest coal producing region.

Further details are available from www.coaltrans.com.