The Coal Industry Law was promulgated in 1996 and amended in 2009, 2011, 2013 and 2016 respectively. The latest revision entered into force on November 7, 2016.

There are 67 articles in total.

The key points are as follows:

1.The coal resources are owned by the State. The State ownership of the coal resources, either on the surface or underground, shall not change with the ownership or right to use of the land which the coal resources are attached to.

2.With regard to the development of the coal resources, the State shall apply the principle of unified planning, rational geographical distribution and comprehensive utilization.

3.The governments and the coal mining enterprises must take measures to strengthen occupational protection so as to guarantee the safety and health of coal mine workers and staff members. The State shall take special protective measures for miners working in underground coal mines.

4.Unified control shall be maintained over the import and export of coal in accordance with the relevant regulations of the State Council.