The Australian Bureau of Statistics latest International Trade in Goods and Services data shows total coal exports in the three months to January were $24.27 billion – a staggering 159 per cent increase on the same period a year earlier.
Total resources and energy exports were $356.5 billion in the 12 months to January 2022, a 29 per cent increase on the previous 12 months.
Minister for Resources and Water Keith Pitt said Australia’s thriving resources sector continues to be a significant contributor to the strength of the national economy.
“Recent requests from Poland to Australia for coal from sources alternative to Russia show the world is increasingly looking to Australia for the resources needed to provide energy security,” Pitt said.
“In uncertain times, our resources sector’s outstanding reputation as a leading and reliable supplier is providing stability here and abroad.
“Coal was a stand-out performer with $67.42 billion in total exports for the 12 months to January, up 60 per cent on the previous year.”
Iron ore export earnings for the 12 months to January totalled $151.65 billion, which was 24 per cent up on the previous year.
However, the $26.73 billion earnt for the three months to January was down 19 per cent on the previous three months to October 2021.
“Our resources and energy sector, Australia’s biggest export earner, continues to provide the backbone for a strong economy and importantly, create jobs, particularly for regional Australians.”
Pitt said liquefied natural gas also increased, with $52.85 billion in total export earnings for the 12 months to January, up 52 per cent on the previous year.