Energy policy bureaucrats in China are proposing to discontinue the Australian coal import ban. Several people familiar with the situation have revealed. The embargo, which began regarding two years ago, has been subject to heightened tensions between the two countries, but this is easing and there are concerns that Western sanctions on Russia, which has invaded Ukraine, will tighten supply. The proposal will be submitted to the leadership.
Authorities are aiming to increase fuel supply to avoid a recurrence of the power supply turmoil like last year, as the Communist Party Congress is on the horizon, according to people familiar with the matter. The plan will be submitted to executives who are in a position to approve policy changes and a final decision will be made. Two other sources said some companies are already preparing to resume imports.
I requested comments from the National Development and Reform Commission of China (Reform Commission), but I have not received any reply so far.
news-rsf-original-reference paywall">Original title:
news-rsf-original-reference paywall">China Considers Ending Australia Coal Ban on Russia Supply Fears(excerpt)