NEW DELHI: Indonesia today said it exported around 77 million tonnes of coal to India in 2012-13, registering a jump of 40 per cent over the previous fiscal.
"Indonesia has maintained its position as number one exporter to India, accounting at around 77 million tonnes (MT) in 2012-13 (40 per cent increase from 2011-12)," Indonesian Ambassador to India Rizali W Indrakesuma said during a conference organised by the PHD Chamber here.
Most of the Indonesian coal imported by the thermal power plants in India is of lower calorific value.
On the Indonesian government's proposal to restrict exports of certain grades of coal, he said the government is currently still evaluating the new regulation for the export of low-grade coal by 2014.
Indonesia will have to import coal in the future to meet its domestic need as the country exports almost 80 per cent of its annual coal output, the Ambassador said, adding that as a result, it becomes imperative for the nation to tighten its control on exports so as to secure long-term supply of coal.
Indonesia also exports coal to countries like China, South Korea, Japan and Taiwan.
India's coal import is likely to reach the level of 165- 180 MT during the current fiscal from 135 MT in FY'13.
