COVID-19: Coal industry helps Quang Ninh maintain economic growth

Illustrative image (Photo: VNA)

Quang Ninh (VNA) - The coal industry is considered a bright spot in helping the northern province of Quang Ninh maintain its economic growth in 2020 despite the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, according to the provincial People’s Committee.

A report released by the Vietnam National Coal - Mineral Industries Holding Corporation Limited (Vinacomin) revealed that its subsidiaries churned out a total 10.4 million tonnes of raw coal in the first quarter of the year, equivalent to 25.7 percent of the annual target.

It sold 11.63 million tonnes in the quarter, earning an estimated 30.2 trillion VND (1.29 billion USD).

In order to achieve the “dual goals” of preventing and controlling the COVID-19 outbreak and realising its growth goal of 12 percent this year, local authorities have directed all departments and sectors to quickly remove all difficulties facing the coal industry, so it may strengthen operations and production.

The local authorities have also focused on accelerating site clearance for Khe Cham coal sorting, Mong Duong mine, and Bang Nau dump projects, while working with the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment in seeking the Prime Minister’s approval for a number of coal mines, to expand exploitation.

Quang Ninh has also sped up its economic restructuring, in which the manufacturing and processing industry is given a major focus.

It has worked on quickly removing difficulties facing local enterprises and accelerating the implementation of key investment projects, so that a number of processing and manufacturing factories can go into operation.

The province posted growth of 7.2 percent in the first quarter, and State budget contributions totalled 211 billion VND (9 million USD). Tourism revenue and export turnover, meanwhile, fell 1.81 trillion VND (77.6 million USD) and 80.5 million USD, respectively./.