Coal Prices Surge: Purbaya Prepares Export Duties, Bahlil Opens Door to Production Relaxation
The government is preparing a number of policies to respond to the global energy turmoil. To strengthen fiscal finances, the government will implement regulations to optimise Indonesia’s flagship commodities, one of which is coal.
Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa targets that the coal export duty (BK) regulation will take effect on 1 April 2026. “It should be tomorrow if the meeting happens, yes, 1 April. If it happens tomorrow. Not sure yet, because I still need to hold the meeting first,” Purbaya said in Jakarta on Wednesday (25/3/2026).
In addition to coal, the government is also drafting regulations for special nickel export duties. The export duty rates for coal and nickel commodities have actually been approved by the President. However, the details of the policy will be discussed again across ministries and agencies (K/L) in the Coordinating Ministry for Economic Affairs.
Purbaya emphasised that he cannot yet disclose the exact export duty rates, as the technical aspects are still in the finalisation stage. “The figure (export duty) has been decided by the President, but the meeting can be discussed first before we issue how it will be later. (Coal) will clearly be subject to export duties in accordance with the President’s directive,” he revealed.
Nevertheless, the Finance Minister also opens the possibility of accelerating the implementation of the policy, especially if global coal prices continue to show an upward trend. Because the high commodity price condition can be a momentum for the government to increase state revenues.
“We’ll see what the industry condition is like, but if it’s urgent, it can (be implemented faster),” he said.
On the other hand, he acknowledges objections from mining industry players to the planned implementation of the export duty. “They (industry players) definitely disagree. However, coal prices are very high. Now over $135 per tonne,” stated the Finance Minister.
Meanwhile, the government remains committed to proceeding with the policy in line with the current coal price condition, which is still considered sufficiently high.