GF SECURITIES·2026-03-08 04:09Core Insights - The coal industry is expected to maintain a low domestic production level during the conference period, while the cost of imported coal continues to rise [1][75] - The coal (CITIC) index increased by 3.5%, outperforming the CSI 300 index by 4.6 percentage points, with a cumulative increase of 20.0% since the beginning of the year [75] - The domestic coal price is supported by recovering demand and limited supply due to geopolitical tensions and production constraints [76] Market Dynamics - Thermal Coal: The CCI 5500 thermal coal index remained stable at 750 RMB/ton, with the annual long-term contract price at 682 RMB/ton, reflecting a 2 RMB/ton increase month-on-month [76] - Coking Coal: Prices for coking coal have generally declined, with the main production areas experiencing price drops, while demand is slowly recovering as the peak season approaches [40][77] - Coke: The first round of price reductions for coke has been implemented, with prices dropping by 50-55 RMB/ton, influenced by limited production and slow recovery in demand [62][73] Industry Outlook - The coal supply-demand balance is expected to shift from loose to tight in 2026, with domestic production growth significantly decreasing and global supply impacted by reduced exports from Indonesia and Australia [4][75] - The new long-term contract policy for 2026 emphasizes supply security and market-oriented pricing mechanisms, which may enhance the fulfillment rate of contracts [78][79] - Key companies in the sector include China Shenhua, Yanzhou Coal, and Shanxi Coal, which are expected to benefit from rising global energy prices and improved demand forecasts [4][75]