Coal is Australia's premier cash commodity
Coal was Australia's most important export commodity in money terms during the 1978-1979 fiscal year, accounting for more than ten percent of export income. Japan is the country's largest customer, especially of hard coking coal for its iron and steel industry. Continuing growth in exports to Japan is expected, particularly in steaming coal, later in the next decade. Other Asian and Euorpean countries are important purchasers of Australian coals whose requirements may increase more rapidly, relative to present usage, than those of Japan. Despite some present slackness in demand and prices, the industry looks ahead with confidence against the background of the total world energy scenario. Exploration in potential areas is widespread by individual companies and consortia. Australian and many overseas groups are involved, with oil industry majors prominent (e.g., Shell, B.P., Total, Houston, Exxon), although participation may be through low profile subsidiary companies.
- OSTI ID:
- 5629760
- Journal Information:
- World Coal; (United States), Vol. 5:11
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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