Coal India Opens E-Auction Platform to Foreign Buyers, Enables Direct Participation From January 1

Kolkata, January 2, 2026 – Coal India Limited has expanded the scope of its coal marketing framework by allowing foreign coal consumers to directly participate in its electronic auction platform, marking a significant shift in how overseas buyers access Indian coal.

The new arrangement became effective from January 1, 2026, and allows coal consumers based in neighbouring countries such as Bangladesh, Bhutan, and Nepal to bid directly in Coal India’s Single Window Mode Agnostic (SWMA) e-auctions.

Direct Market Access for Overseas Buyers​

Under the revised framework, foreign buyers can now compete alongside domestic participants in SWMA auctions. Until now, overseas coal consumers could access Coal India’s coal only through domestic coal traders, who were permitted to buy and resell coal without end-use restrictions.

The company stated that the move is designed to enhance transparency and competition in the auction process while gradually integrating Indian coal into regional markets, without compromising domestic supply priorities.

Revised Auction Framework and Payment Structure​

Coal India has incorporated all operational and procedural requirements into the updated auction scheme. Key features for foreign buyers include:

• One-time digital registration for participation
• Online bidding through the SWMA platform
• Advance electronic payment mechanisms
• Export of coal through notified logistics channels

The payment framework differentiates between countries. Buyers from Nepal can make payments in either Indian rupees or US dollars, while buyers from Bangladesh and Bhutan are required to transact in US dollars, with valuation linked to the rupee.

Strategic Context​

The decision follows extensive engagement by Coal India with potential overseas coal consumers to assess demand patterns and identify enabling provisions. The company views the move as a calibrated step toward regional market expansion, aimed at improving price discovery and increasing participation in its auction ecosystem.

By opening its e-auctions to foreign buyers, Coal India is positioning its digital auction platform as a broader regional marketplace, while retaining control over supply mechanisms and operational safeguards.

About the Company​

Coal India Limited is a Maharatna public sector enterprise and the world’s largest coal producer. The company plays a central role in meeting India’s energy requirements, supplying coal to power, steel, cement, and other core industries, while also progressively modernising its sales and distribution mechanisms through digital platforms.

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