Coal Industry Ministry plans to close one third of state-owned mines

Ukraine’s Energy and Coal Industry Ministry plans to close one third of state-owned coal mines running at a loss.

Energy Minister Ihor Nasalyk has said this during Government Question Hour held in Parliament today, an Ukrinform correspondent reports.

“The profitability of a ton of coal totals about UAH 25,000 at some mines, and coal will soon become [as precious as] gold. We will be forced to close most unprofitable mines, which total 11-13", Nasalyk said.

At the same time, the minister said that seven most profitable state-owned mines will continue their work.

"All the rest will be handed over for privatization," Nasalyk said.

iy