National Focus

Vietnam paid US$1.03 billion to import coal

By Nga Vu October 29, 2017 | 06:30 AM GMT+7

In the first nine months of 2017, Vietnam imported 10.4 million tons of coal with the import turnover of US$1.03 billion while the export turnover only reached $207 million, according to the General Department of Customs.

The domestic coal demand is expanding much faster than the domestic industries capacity to increase supply. Photo: cafef

Major coal exporters to Vietnam include Indonesia, Australia, Russia, China, Malaysia ...

In 2013, Vietnam imported only 2.27 million tons of coal priced at US$264 million; however, by the year 2016, 13.3 million tons of coal was imported with the import turnover of US$927 million. With such huge import volume and turnover, Vietnam officially has become a coal importer since 2016.

One of reason leading to higher coal import is the increasing consumption demand of coal of some "giant" corporations such as Vietnam Electricity Corporation (EVN), Vietnam National Petroleum Group (PVN) and thermal power plants owned by foreign investors...

In addition, according to Vietnam National Coal - Mineral Industries Holding Corporation Limited (Vinacomin), the domestic coal demand is expanding much faster than the domestic industries capacity to increase supply.

Based on Vinacomin’s estimates, by 2020, the domestic production demand of coal will reach more than 75 million tons; however, the domestic coal production only meet 50 per cent of the demand; therefore the rest will have to be imported.

Currently, besides Vinacomin, there are many commercial enterprises allowed to import coal. According to Customs Department of Quang Ninh province, there are 18 enterprises import coal through the Department.

Imported coal is entitled to a zero-per cent tax rate. The increasingly low oil price resulting in a sharp decrease in coal price makes price of one ton of imported coal US$5 - 8 lower than that of domestic coal. 

Resolution 68: A turning point in Vietnam's private sector policy

Resolution 68: A turning point in Vietnam's private sector policy

National Focus -  5 day

As Vietnam sets its sights on becoming a high-income country by 2045, Resolution 68 lays a crucial foundation. But turning vision into reality requires not only good policy - but also unwavering execution, mutual trust and national unity.

Vietnam plans upgrade of Gia Binh airport to dual-use international hub

Vietnam plans upgrade of Gia Binh airport to dual-use international hub

National Focus -  5 day

Vietnam plans to upgrade Gia Binh Airport in Bac Ninh province into a dual-use international airport to support both military and civilian operations, the government said on Friday.

Lives under the scorching sun: Outdoor workers racing against climate change

Lives under the scorching sun: Outdoor workers racing against climate change

National Focus -  3 month

Under unforgiving conditions, the outdoor workers - the backbone of urban economies - endure the harshest impacts of climate change while remaining overlooked by social safety nets. Their resilience and struggles highlight the urgent need for better protection in the face of rising temperatures and precarious livelihoods.

CEO Group chairman unveils guide to Vietnam real estate for foreigners

CEO Group chairman unveils guide to Vietnam real estate for foreigners

National Focus -  5 month

Doan Van Binh, Chairman of CEO Group and Vice President of the Vietnam National Real Estate Association, introduced his latest book, “Vietnam Real Estate for Foreigners,” at a launch event in Hanoi on Friday.

Women leading the charge in Vietnam's green transition

Women leading the charge in Vietnam's green transition

National Focus -  6 month

Acting for increased women’s participation and leadership in climate action, Vietnam can accelerate a transition that is more inclusive, just, and impactful.

Steam for girls: A journey of passionate and creative girls

Steam for girls: A journey of passionate and creative girls

National Focus -  7 month

The "Steam for girls 2024" competition provides a creative platform for Steam and an opportunity for students to connect with peers from various regions within Vietnam and internationally.