Record high exports by Richards Bay Coal Terminal
CEO Alan Waller says in 2017, there were 38 days of port closures compared to 29 the year before
Richards Bay Coal Terminal, one of the world’s largest such terminals, reported a record-breaking export year for 2017, despite severe weather disruptions that led to lengthy and unusual port closures. The terminal, which is owned by all South African major and junior coal miners, exported 76.47-million tonnes, receiving a record 75.59-million tonnes from the inland coalfields delivered by Transnet Freight Rail. There were 38 days of port closures during the year compared to 29 the year before, CEO Alan Waller said on Friday. In 2016, the terminal exported 72.6-million tonnes. Asian countries imported 81% of coal leaving the terminal, with India, Pakistan and South Korea the main buyers. Europe accounted for 10% and Africa about 8%. South America accounted for the small remaining balance. Looking ahead to 2018, Waller said the terminal had to "conservatively" export 77-million tonnes. The terminal has capacity to export 91-million tonnes and Transnet Freight Rail has capacity to del...
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