Prospects for U. S. coal in world trade

The prospects for U.S. coal in the world market and important factors influencing the growth of the industry are discussed. Demand for U.S. coal has increased as a result of oil price increases and interruption of oil supplies, but marketability will depend on keeping costs competitive with other energy sources. Since transportation is a major factor in coal costs, short-sighted opportunism in the transportation sector must be eliminated. Competition between railroads, proposed coal slurry pipelines, and restored inland water routes could keep U.S. coal in the energy competition. Also discussed is the importance of governmental energy policy with respect to the coal industry. (JMT)