Polish Coal: exports up, profits down

According to data released by the Katowice branch of the nation’s Industrial Development Agency, exports of coal during the period January to September 2016 increased by 3 percent, in comparison with the same time period in 2015. However, during the same time period in 2016, losses amounted to PLN 1.3 billion, the Polish Press Agency reported. The loss is reported to have occurred due to a discrepancy between the cost of mining the coal in Poland, and the price of coal. The average price that a ton of steam coal fetched, thus far in 2016, was PLN 213, while producing it cost PLN 241. The press reported that this brings about some concern amongst the Trade Union of Minors, who fear a possible uncertain future for the industry, according to Wacław Czerkawski of the union.