Pakistan imports various types of coal to meet its energy and industrial needs. The imported coal is generally of higher quality compared to the domestic lignite found in the Thar region. Here are the main types of coal imported into Pakistan:
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Bituminous Coal: This is the most commonly imported type of coal in Pakistan. It has a higher carbon content and energy density compared to lignite, making it more efficient for industrial uses, particularly in cement manufacturing and steel production.
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Sub-Bituminous Coal: Pakistan also imports sub-bituminous coal, which is of higher quality than lignite but lower than bituminous coal. It is used for power generation and various industrial processes.
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Anthracite Coal: In smaller quantities, Pakistan imports anthracite coal, which is the highest rank of coal with the highest carbon content and energy density. It is used in specialized industrial applications, including metallurgy.
Sources of Imported Coal: The main countries from which Pakistan imports coal include:
- South Africa: A significant supplier of bituminous and sub-bituminous coal to Pakistan.
- Indonesia: Another major source of bituminous and sub-bituminous coal for Pakistan.
- Australia: Provides high-quality coal, including bituminous and anthracite.
- Russia: Also a supplier of various types of coal.
The imported coal is used primarily in the cement industry, power generation, and other industrial sectors that require higher-quality coal than what is domestically available.