China Daily reported that China, the world's biggest coal producer and consumer, aims to secure about 170 billion tons of coal reserves through exploration, according to Xu Dingming, head of the energy bureau under the National Development and Reform Commission.

Xu said companies were reluctant to invest in exploration due to its high risks, so the Government was stepping up efforts to look for more resources.

The move reflects the nation's constant efforts to secure adequate energy resources to meet the demand of its fast-growing economy.

China Daily reported the country has known commercially recoverable coal reserves of 288 billion tons, with total estimated coal resources of 5.5 trillion tons, according to Zhang Yuzhuo, vice-president of China's biggest coal firm, Shenhua Group.