Inner Mongolia Reclaims Its Position as China’s Top Coal Producer

31 Jul.,2025

Latest statistics show that in 2024, Inner Mongolia’s raw coal output reached 1.297 billion tons, a 5.4% year-on-year increase.

 

Source: CNR News

Latest statistics show that in 2024, Inner Mongolia’s raw coal output reached 1.297 billion tons, a 5.4% year-on-year increase. This growth rate outpaced the national average by 4.1 percentage points, allowing Inner Mongolia to surpass Shanxi and reclaim its position as China’s top coal producer after four years. But what’s driving this resurgence?

With 1.297 billion tons of coal produced annually, Inner Mongolia accounts for one-quarter of China’s total coal output. It has fulfilled 830 million tons of medium- and long-term thermal coal contracts, covering 34.5% of the national total, and supplies 27 provinces across the country. Both its coal supply and outbound shipments continue to lead the nation, reinforcing its role as a critical energy hub supporting China’s energy security.

The resurgence in coal production is backed by a comprehensive policy framework. Inner Mongolia has introduced key regulations such as the Coal Management Regulations of Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region and the Regulations on Building Inner Mongolia into a Key National Energy and Strategic Resource Base. Additionally, initiatives like the Action Plan for High-Quality Development of the Coal Industry and the Plan for Stable Coal Production Capacity and Orderly Development have provided clear policy direction.

To ensure stable coal output, the region has expanded production capacity at existing mines, approved new projects, and accelerated ongoing construction. These measures have helped maintain a steady and secure supply of coal.

Inner Mongolia’s rise back to the top is also driven by advancements in intelligent mining. To enhance both productivity and safety, the region has modernized its coal sector with a focus on efficiency, quality, and sustainability. Currently, Inner Mongolia operates 205 intelligent coal mines and 280 automated tunneling systems, with 69% of its active mines now utilizing smart mining technology. These intelligent mines contribute 88% of the region’s total coal production capacity. Notably, all large-scale mines producing over 10 million tons annually have completed their digital transformation, significantly boosting output and operational efficiency.

With continued technological innovation and strong policy support, Inner Mongolia is not only reinforcing its position as China’s leading coal supplier but also setting new benchmarks for efficiency and sustainability in the industry.

 

 



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