Coal Exchange Rules Notified To Enable Market-Based Coal Trading

New Delhi, June 9 (KNN) The Ministry of Coal has notified the Coal Exchange Rules, 2026, paving the way for the establishment of coal exchanges aimed at creating a more transparent and market-driven coal trading system in India.

The framework follows the enactment of the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment Act, 2025, which introduced the concept of Mineral Exchanges and empowered the Central Government to facilitate trading of minerals, including coal and its processed forms. 

The Coal Exchange Rules were published in the Official Gazette on June 4, 2026.

The Coal Controller Organisation (CCO), designated as the regulatory authority in December 2025, will be responsible for registering and overseeing Coal Exchanges. 

Eligible entities will be authorised to establish and operate exchanges, formulate market rules and facilitate coal trading. Registrations will be valid for 25 years.

According to the Ministry, the new framework will shift coal marketing from the existing direct sales model to a trading platform that enables multiple buyers and sellers to participate. 

The exchange mechanism is expected to support market-based price discovery, improve transaction efficiency and broaden market access for coal producers, including commercial and captive miners.

The platform will also be available to public sector coal companies seeking to expand their market participation through competitive trading mechanisms.

(KNN Bureau)