Coal mining is a key industry in Russia. In 2024, the country's coal mines and open pits produced 438.6 million tons. These high figures require synchronized cooperation with rail transport.

From 2013 to 2024, coal loading increased by 20.6 million tons, or 7%, reaching 331.4 million tons. Despite the negative price environment, according to China’s General Administration of Customs, Russian coal exports to China grew by 10.1% in January-February, amounting to 12.6 million tons.

Among other topics, IEDT's digest addressed issues such as transport volumes and financial results. The study shows a reduction in the negative financial result of Russian Railways' coal transport in 2023–2024. Thus, due to the Russian government’s tariff policy, there is a gradual alignment of revenue and expenses related to coal transportation by rail.

However, the financial results from the return of empty wagons significantly increase the overall negative outcome between the costs of coal transport and revenue.
The digest includes profitability indicators for both domestic and export coal transport.

The full article can be read on the Gudok newspaper website.