Novak instructed to work out measures to support coal industry enterprises

The Federal Center and the regional authorities of the Russian Federation have been instructed to work out medium-term measures to support coal enterprises. As reported on April 24 by the press service of the Government of the Russian Federation, this task was set by Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak.

The instruction was given following a meeting of the subcommittee on improving the sustainability of the financial sector and individual sectors of the economy, which discussed the current situation of the coal industry and measures to improve its efficiency.

"It was instructed to develop medium-term measures to support industry enterprises to maintain their stable operation, taking into account the experience of their use during the COVID-19 pandemic. Special attention should be paid to safety issues in mines and mines," the government's Telegram channel says.

The heads of the coal mining regions of the Russian Federation reported to the government on the situation in the industry. The measures proposed by the Ministry of Energy should be finalized, taking into account the announced additions.

"The government is monitoring the situation with social stability in the coal mining regions. If necessary, preventive measures should be taken to assess the current situation and forecast for the near future. The President [of Russia Vladimir Putin] always emphasizes that we must be proactive," Novak said.

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On April 1, Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Patrushev, at a meeting on the management system of the subsoil fund, noted that in Russia it is necessary to increase the effectiveness and coverage of monitoring the use of licenses for mineral resources, as well as digitalization and automation of processes in this area. He stressed that mining is one of the leading sectors of the Russian economy. However, for their uninterrupted production, in order to guarantee sufficient reserves for the future, it is necessary to conduct continuous search and exploration of the area.

In March, Novak said that the forecast for coal production for the current year would be lowered, as the industry was going through a rather difficult period. He noted that the government is discussing support measures in the coal sector, which include reducing logistical costs and deferring taxes.

Last August, Russian President Vladimir Putin stressed that the coal industry still has great prospects for development. The well-being of the country's future largely depends on its growth and success, he added.