Vietnam’s coal exports saw a dramatic drop of 65.89 percent month-on-month in January, reaching just US$6.39 million, according to Vietnam’s General Department of Customs. This follows a substantial decrease from US$18.73 million recorded in December.
Year-to-date, total coal exports stand at US$6.39 million, with Indonesia remaining the largest destination, receiving US$4.87 million, or 76.3 percent of the total. Thailand followed with US$1.42 million, accounting for 22.2 percent, while Japan saw an alarming decline of 99.79 percent in coal imports, dropping to just US$20,308.
Exports to Thailand recorded a notable month-on-month growth of 35.50 percent, while exports to Japan and Indonesia saw significant decreases of 99.79 percent and 7.96 percent, respectively.
Vietnam’s coal exports continue to be dominated by Southeast Asian markets, with the sharp drop in exports to Japan highlighting a potential change in demand or market conditions.
See also: Coal Power in Vietnam: Industry Overview
Vietnam coal exports, January, US$ millions
| January | December | MoM | YTD | % of Total | |
| Total | 6.39 | 18.73 | -65.89% | 6.39 | 100.00% |
| Other | 0.08 | 2.68 | -96.98% | 0.08 | 1.27% |
| Indonesia | 4.87 | 5.29 | -7.96% | 4.87 | 76.16% |
| Thailand | 1.42 | 1.05 | 35.50% | 1.42 | 22.26% |
| Japan | 0.02 | 9.72 | -99.79% | 0.02 | 0.32% |