Aceh Coal Exports Hit Record High, Bolstering Regional Economy

Coal has emerged as the primary driver of foreign exchange earnings for Aceh Province, Indonesia, accounting for a dominant 64% of the region's total export revenue. The Aceh Customs Office reported that coal exports generated Rp 6.98 trillion in foreign exchange for the province.

Data compiled by the Aceh Customs Office reveals a significant surge in both the volume and value of coal exports originating from Aceh. During the first five months of 2026 (January to May), coal exports reached a five-year high of 5.38 million tons, valued at Rp 3.11 trillion. This volume surpasses the 5.26 million tons exported in the same period of 2025 (worth Rp 2.86 trillion) and shows a dramatic recovery from the low of 3.24 million tons in 2024 (worth Rp 2.03 trillion).

Although 2026 recorded the highest export volume in five years, the highest foreign exchange value was achieved in 2022, when 3.74 million tons of coal generated Rp 3.31 trillion. This difference is attributed to fluctuations in global benchmark coal prices during that period.

Kanwil Bea Cukai Aceh Head M Rizki Baidillah emphasized the commitment to transparently providing periodic information on export and import developments. "Through the presentation of this readiness criteria data, we want to provide a complete picture of the region's commodity strength," he stated. The data on coal export performance reflects a recovery trend and new records, showcasing the operational capability and resilience of Aceh's mining sector amidst global market price dynamics.

Analysis of customs data indicates that export volumes are influenced by the activities of business players. While PT Mifa Bersaudara and PT Bara Energi Lestari have consistently dominated coal exports, PT Media Djaya Bersama emerged as a new significant player in 2026. These customs data are expected to serve as an objective reference for all stakeholders.

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Through the presentation of this readiness criteria data, we want to provide a complete picture of the region's commodity strength.