Semirara Mining and Power Corporation (SMPC) is considering Japan as a potential export market for its increased coal production from the Semirara mine in Antique province.
In a report by Manila Bulletin, SMPC President and Chief Operating Officer Maria Cristina C. Gotianun said that the company had already conducted a trial shipment to Japan and is awaiting the required publication from the National Mapping and Resource Information Authority (NAMRIA) before receiving a final response from the buyer.
NAMRIA plays a vital role in supplying critical information on the country’s environment and natural resources, which is key to informed decision-making in development and resource management.
Gotianun explained that the Japanese buyer is cautious and requires the NAMRIA publication for further steps, noting that the process is underway.
Despite the pending formalities, there has been no negative feedback from the Japanese buyer after the trial shipment, indicating a positive reception so far.
Meanwhile, SMPC’s long-established export markets, including China, South Korea, and Brunei Darussalam, continue to purchase shipments from the Semirara mine, while domestic demand is also rising.
Coal sales are expected to bolster SMPC’s income in the second half of the year, alongside the return of 300 megawatts (MW) of capacity from its Southwest Luzon Power Generation Corporation subsidiary.
The additional capacity will be available for sale either through the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market (WESM) or via bilateral contracts with potential buyers.
SMPC reported 5.2 million metric tons (MMT) of coal production in the first half of the year, aiming to reach 10 to 12 MMT by year-end.
