Kyrgyzstan is considering a possible six-month ban on coal exports by road. The draft resolution of the Cabinet of Ministers "On Certain Issues of Coal Transportation" has been put out for public discussion by the Ministry of Energy.

Restrictions and exceptions to the ban

The ban will cover coal under EAEU HS codes 2701 and 2702. Exceptions are envisaged for two road checkpoints: Irkeshtam-road and Torugart-road. In addition, Kyrgyzskomur JSC will be exempted from this restriction and will retain the right to export coal by road through any checkpoint on the state border.

Purpose of the restrictions

According to the drafters, the ban is needed to ensure the energy security of the Kyrgyz Republic and to prioritize meeting the needs of the domestic market. The main goals include preventing shortages of solid fuel, curbing coal price growth and combating smuggling.

According to the background statement on Kyrgyzskomur's activities (January-October 2026)

539thousand tons of coal (exports)
3billion som (revenue)
126.5million som (net profit)

Similar state regulation measures on coal export previously adopted have already shown their importance; for example, in 2026 their application helped avoid coal shortages, including in regions with limited access to alternative fuels.

Context

If the new document enters into force, Cabinet of Ministers Resolution No. 430 of June 20, 2026, "On Certain Issues of Coal Transportation," will become invalid. The resolution that may regulate this issue will enter into force three days after official publication.