Banpu Indonesian coal output reached 11.95 million tons in 2003

Despite the declining result in the fourth quarter, Thai energy conglomerate Banpu Plc. recorded a larger than expected coal output in Indonesia in 2003.

The firm produced a total of 11.95 million tons of coal throughout last year, as against the target of 11.5 million tons.

Banpu said coal production from its Indonesian mines declined to 2.91 million tons in the fourth quarter of 2003, from 3.01 million tons in the previous quarter, while coal sales dropped to 2.92 million tons from 3.43 million tons.

Banpu operates seven coalmines in Indonesia including three producing coalmines, that is Jorong Barutama Greston in South Kalimantan, Indominco Mandiri in East Kalimantan, and Kitadin in East Kalimantan.

Two other coalmines, Trubaindo in East Kalimantan and Mumpun Pandan in Jambi are expected to start production by the end of 2004 and 2005.

Another coalmine, Barasentosa Lestari, in South Sumatra is now on exploration stage, while East Kalimantan-based coalmine PT Bharinto Ekatama, which was acquired by the Thai firm last month, has completed feasibility study and is planning construction.

Banpu expects to produce around 20 million tons in 2006 from its Indonesian coal concessions. (robert)

Banpu?s Production, Sales, Coal Reserves and Resources Q4 2003
Quantity (Million Tons)
Source	As of Sep. 30, 03		Production Oct ? Dec ?03	As of Dec. 31, 03		Sales Oct ? Dec ?03
	Reserves	Resources		Reserves	Resources
1. Jorong	34.21	7.60	0.62	35.59	7.60	0.78
2. Indominco	41.50	-	1.51	39.99	-	1.46
3. Kitadin	30.25	71.70	0.78	29.47	71.70	0.68
4. Trubaindo	51.60	20.90	-	51.60	20.90	-
5. Barasentosa	-	24.70	-	-	24.70	-
6. Mampu Pandan	-	14.10	-	-	14.10	-
TOTAL	157.57	139.00	2.91	154.65	139.00	2.92