Asia
India: The Indian government approved 100% foreign direct investment through automatic route for coal mining, allowing global companies to own coal mines and pursue coal mining in the nation, Platts reported. The approval pertains to associated processing infrastructure as well, which includes coal washeries, handling and separation.
Indonesia: The Indonesian government's decision to move its capital to the East Kalimantan province could disrupt the coal-producing region, Platts reported, citing market sources. The decision may affect mining activity and cause stricter environmental standards after the capital moves closer to several major thermal coal mines.
*Two Chinese companies signed a deal to jointly build a 12 million-tonne coking coal project in Indonesia, according to China Metallurgical News. Stainless steel producer Tsingshan Holding Group Co. Ltd. signed the agreement with Huafon Group Co. Ltd., and the project will produce synthetic ammonia, nitric acid and polymer materials.
Mongolia: The Mineral Resources and Petroleum Authority of Mongolia determined that SouthGobi Resources Ltd.'s SouthGobi Sands LLC unit violated its environmental reclamation obligations and terminated three of the former's mining leases for the Soumber coal deposit in Mongolia. The company does not believe in the termination's merit and is not aware of any way it failed to fulfill its reclamation obligations.
Australia
Nearly 1,400 hectares of indigenous land was stripped of its officially recognized native title and subsequent legal protections in Queensland to make way for coal pits, the Independent reported. An Australian state government's ruling means protesters can be arrested for trespassing in the area.
Africa
Botswana: Shumba Energy Ltd. signed a cooperation agreement with PowerChina International Group Ltd. and Wison Group Holding Ltd. to develop a US$1 billion coal-to-liquid plant using coal from the Mabesekwa coal project in Botswana, according to Miningmx.
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