Customers and markets

The global thermal and metallurgical coal markets continued to improve throughout 2010 as economies steadily recovered from the global economic downturn. Whilst concerns remain about the economic situation going forward, our traditional Asian markets have recovered and demand for thermal and metallurgical coal remains strong moving in to 2011. Furthermore, continued growth in India and increasing acceptance of imported coals in conjunction with domestic coal in China will underpin continued growth in demand for all types of coal.

In 2010 we worked closely with a customer to further our understanding of the way our products are being used. With this knowledge we are better able to service their changing needs. We also look for opportunities to collaborate with our customers and foster mutual understanding on utilisation of our products. In 2010 this took the form of a collaboration session with a customer, focussing on sharing our knowledge and experience in the area of coal upgrading technologies.

2010 production and sales

In 2010, RTCA mines produced 47. 5 million tonnes of coal. Total coal sales were just below our production rate at 47.2 million tonnes.

Queensland production

New South Wales production