THE PHILIPPINES has received assurances on Indonesia’s intention to resume coal exports once Jakarta allocates sufficient quantities for its domestic needs.
In a statement on Sunday, Trade Secretary Ramon M. Lopez said the assurances were delivered by Indonesian Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto at a meeting on Jan. 21.
Indonesia imposed a ban on coal exports after its state power utility announced low stockpiles of coal at Indonesian power plants.
Mr. Hartarto also told Mr. Lopez that the Indonesian Ministry of Agriculture welcomes exporters from the Philippines seeking to enter the Indonesian market.
Mr. Lopez added that the Philippine market remains open for Indonesian products, noting that investment is important in accelerating the economic recovery.
The Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) has urged the government to diversify the Philippines’ energy sources in the wake of disruption caused by Indonesia’s coal export ban.
PCCI President George T. Barcelon warned that the export ban may have a major impact on power costs and availability since 60% of Philippine power is generated by coal-fired power plants.
