India’s coal imports slightly rise amidst growing power demand

Coal-based power generation was up over 10% from April to July.

India has reported a 0.9% increase in its coal imports from April to July of fiscal year (FY) 2024 to 2025, reaching 90.51 million tonnes (MT) compared to 89.68 MT in the previous year. 

Specifically, the Ministry of Coal said imports of non-coking coal, which is used in thermal power plants, increased by two percent from April to July, whilst coking coal imports declined by 2.6%. 

In July 2024 alone, coal imports rose by 15.9%, reaching 21.81 MT compared to 18.82 MT in July 2023.

Meanwhile, coal-based power generation from April 2024 to July 2024 grew 10.18% from a year ago, whilst imports for blending purposes decreased by 8.2% during the same period. 

The ministry said coal production during the April to July 2024 period increased 9.56% to 321.40 MT compared to 293.35 MT in the same period of FY 2023 to 2024. This reflects the ongoing efforts to streamline coal usage and enhance domestic production capabilities, it added.

“The proactive measures taken by the government to increase domestic coal output will ultimately reduce dependence on imports and contribute to the overall sustainability of India's energy landscape,” ministry said.