China Denies Reports of Slowed Coal Inspections

BEIJING (Reuters) – China’s customs authorities have denied reports that they plan to go slow on inspections of imported coal, potentially leading to fewer imports.

China’s General Administration of Customs stated in a Weibo post on Sunday that it was aware of online reports claiming customs inspections would be delayed from April 1, resulting in longer clearance times. The post clarified, “This information is false.”

The China Coal Transportation and Distribution Association revealed on Friday evening that customs administrations in multiple areas of China would increase inspections of imported coal starting April 1.

The association did not immediately respond to requests for comment via email and Wechat.

Additionally, the group and the China Coal Industry Association had previously issued a statement urging their members to limit imports of low-quality coal and reduce output to restore balance in the oversupplied market.