China and India remain Indonesia’s largest coal export markets in 2025

China and India remained the two largest export destinations for Indonesian coal in 2025, despite recording year-on-year declines in import volumes, according to the Indonesia Coal Mining Association (APBI-ICMA).

APBI said on its LinkedIn account that the moderation in Indonesia’s coal exports did not reflect a broad weakening in global demand, but rather adjustments in key destination countries. China continued to be the largest market, with coal imports from Indonesia reaching around 211.8 million tons in 2025, although the volume declined compared to the previous year.

The association noted that China’s more cautious import stance was influenced by slower economic activity, high domestic coal stockpiles, increased domestic coal production, and the growing role of renewable energy. Nevertheless, APBI emphasized that structurally, China still requires imported coal to maintain energy supply stability and power system flexibility.

India remained the second-largest export market, with volumes of approximately 103.8 million tons, also posting an annual decline. The reduction was linked to rising domestic coal production that was not fully matched by industrial electricity demand growth, as well as renewable energy optimization and seasonal factors. APBI noted that in certain periods, India even exported coal, although the volumes were limited and did not significantly affect Indonesia’s export performance.

In Southeast Asia, the Philippines continued to be a key market with exports of about 38.5 million tons, despite a year-on-year decline driven by domestic power supply efficiency measures. Meanwhile, Malaysia recorded an increase in coal imports from Indonesia, reflecting short-term baseload power needs and limited alternative energy options. South Korea also showed an upward trend in coal imports in 2025, underscoring coal’s continued role in ensuring electricity system reliability amid a gradual energy transition.

For deeper insight into these trends, industry players can join Petromindo’s 2026 Coal Market Dynamics Conference, which will discuss shifting coal trade strategies across Indonesia, China, India, and ASEAN. Details are available at: https://www.petromindo.com/events/detail/2026-coal-market-dynamics-conference-navigating-the-shift-from-volume-to-value-in-indonesia-china-india-and-asean