Indonesia introduces stricter coal export rules as trade hits $18.1 billion
Indonesia has adopted new regulations to tighten governance of coal exports, aiming for greater transparency and to boost its role as a reliable energy partner.
At the 31st Coaltrans Asia Forum in Badung, Bali, the Trade Ministry unveiled Regulation No. 15 of 2026 to tighten governance of strategic natural-resource exports, particularly coal, and to position Indonesia as a dependable global energy partner. Coal exports rose to US$18.11 billion in the January-July period, up 8.36 % from the previous year, contributing to a total export value of US$167.3 billion and a trade surplus of about US$3.9 billion.
The ministry also issued Regulation No. 12 of 2026 to streamline export licensing and improve ease of doing business. Around 3,500 participants from more than ten countries attended the forum, discussing market dynamics and supply-chain resilience. Industry voices such as Priyadi of the Indonesian Coal Mining Association and Luke Thomas Mahoney of PT Danantara Sumberdaya Indonesia praised the push for greater transparency and traceability across the coal supply chain.
Why it matters
Stricter coal export rules could reshape Indonesia's trade balance and affect global energy supply chains.
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