However, the export to this market was down 41% in volume and 53% in value compared to the same period last year. The export price to Japan was US$280 per tonne, down 21% over the same period in 2023.

The second largest market was the Philippines, reaching 49,660 tonnes valued at US$11 million, a sudden increase of 32,571% in volume and 17,862% in value year on year.

In June alone, Vietnam exported 27,000 tonnes of coal to this market, equivalent to more than US$6 million. The export price to this market was US$223 per tonne, down 45% over the same period. This island nation did not import coal in June 2023.

The Netherlands was the third largest export market of Vietnamese coal in the first half, with 22,843 tonnes, worth US$7.3 million. The export price reached US$320 per tonne, much higher than the average price of all export markets.

According to the General Department of Customs, in the first six months of the year, Vietnam exported 211,573 tonnes, earning US$59 million, up 2.1% in volume but down 24.1% in value compared to the same period in 2023.

The average export price reached US$279 per tonne, down 25.6% over the same period last year.

The Ministry of Industry and Trade said Southeast Asian countries' coal import increase was due to higher demand of coal for production activities, especially thermal power. While, hydropower is facing difficulties due to the impact of the El Nino, causing record hot weather.

VOV