China's imports of coking coal from Australia totaled 1.2 million tonnes in February, a 21% decline from 1.5 million tonnes a year ago, Reuters reported March 25, citing General Administration of Customs data.

Chinese customs inspections of Australian cargoes have been taking longer than usual, causing traders to reduce purchases of Australian coal.

Imports from Australia increased 27% to 5.5 million tonnes year over year in the first two months of 2019. Reuters said the increase reflected a flurry of delayed shipments being accepted in January.

February imports from Mongolia grew 47% year over year to 1.4 million tonnes, while imports from Russia dropped 31% to 191,966 tonnes.