PT Bukit Asam Tbk (PTBA), Indonesia's state-controlled coal miner, saw its first-half coal sales edge down 2.4% from a year earlier as production took a hit, though stronger prices and a 5% jump in exports helped cushion the blow, according to data released by the company on July 24.

The company sold 21.10 million tonnes of coal in the January-June period, compared with 21.62 million tonnes a year ago. Domestic sales accounted for 10.77 million tonnes, or 51% of total sales, trending lower year on year, while exports reached 10.33 million tonnes, up about 5% year on year, driven by demand from Vietnam, Bangladesh, Cambodia, India and Thailand.

Despite the export growth, PTBA stressed that meeting domestic requirements remains its top priority. Sales to state utility PLN Group totaled 7.78 million tonnes in the first half. Deliveries earmarked for the Domestic Market Obligation (DMO) program made up roughly 55% of total production, well above the government's minimum 25% requirement.

Production during the January-June period stood at 19.45 million tonnes, down around 10% year on year. Sales exceeded output due to inventory drawdowns, according to a company statement.

On the logistics side, the company transported 18.15 million tonnes of coal through June, with rail shipments accounting for 17.47 million tonnes, underscoring the reliability of its distribution network.

PTBA recorded a stripping ratio of 5.26x in the first half, within its full-year target of 5.63x, as it continued to apply selective mining methods to maintain operational efficiency, the company said.

Capital expenditure in the period was primarily directed toward logistics infrastructure projects, including the Tanjung Enim–Kramasan coal transport scheme and the Banko In-Pit Conveyor, both aimed at boosting long-term operational performance.

PTBA President Director Bambang Ismawan said the first-half performance reflects the company's commitment to ensuring sustainable production and supply to customers.

This achievement provides a strong foundation for the company to continue creating added value for all stakeholders, Bambang said in the statement.

"Entering the second half of 2026, PTBA will continue to strengthen operational reliability, maintain cost efficiency, optimize both domestic and export markets, and advance various strategic projects to support the company's sustainable growth amid the dynamic global coal industry," he added.