The Coal Industry in the Northeast Asian Context

Abstract

This chapter briefly discusses some developments in the Northeast Asian coal industry that may have a regional impact on Japan, including emerging sources of coal in Northeast Asia and trends in coal use by Northeast Asian economies. It also discusses common issues faced by all Northeast Asia coal consumers. Coal and its importance in Northeast Asia’s energy mix is analysed through a comparative lens of coal trade in the East Asian region. Ultimately, it provides a macro picture of the Northeast Asian coal industry outside the immediate confines of Japan. In addition, other than Japan, China is the world’s largest consumer of coal energy.