Coal India Limited (CIL) has authorized direct participation in its Single Window Mode Agnostic (SWMA) e-auctions for coal consumers located in Bangladesh, Bhutan, and Nepal, effective January 1, 2026. This initiative allows foreign buyers to participate alongside domestic buyers. The move is intended to broaden market reach while protecting domestic coal needs, enhancing transparency and global market integration.
E-Auction Access Expanded
Effective January 1, 2026, Coal India Limited (CIL) has opened its Single Window Mode Agnostic (SWMA) e-auctions to direct participation from coal consumers in neighboring countries, including Bangladesh, Bhutan, and Nepal.
Revised Framework Details
The decision, recently approved by CIL’s Board, modifies the SWMA auction mechanism to allow foreign buyers to participate alongside domestic buyers. Previously, access to CIL’s coal for consumers across borders was only available through domestic coal traders.
Key Provisions for Foreign Buyers
The updated Scheme incorporates operational and procedural modalities for foreign buyers, which include:
- One-time registration
- Participation via digital bidding
- Advance electronic payments
- Export through notified logistics channels
Payment Modalities
Payment processes will adhere to Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA) rules. Buyers from Nepal can make payments in INR or U.S. Dollars, while buyers from Bangladesh and Bhutan are required to pay in U.S. Dollars, valued in INR.
Rationale Behind the Decision
CIL engaged in discussions with prospective coal consumers abroad to define enabling clauses and assess their coal needs before implementing this change. According to a senior company official, this move enhances transparency, competition, and global market integration while fully safeguarding domestic coal requirements.
Source: BSE
