Russia's Far East unlocks vast coking coal reserves by 2027

Since 2025, the JSC Central Prospecting and Geological Expedition (CPGE) has been exploring the Naldinsky coal deposit in Russia’s Far East. The project focuses on locating scarce coking coals, including the sought-after K and OS grades. Work is set to finish by December 2027, with field surveys and drilling already in progress. The Naldinsky deposit lies in the Neryungri District of the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia), roughly 40 kilometres west of Chulman. It sits within the eastern Aldan-Chulman coal-bearing area, part of the broader South Yakutia Coal Basin.

CPGE’s technical plan involves evaluating 250 million tons of inferred resources (P1) and 100 million tons of prospective resources (P2). By the project’s end, confirmed reserves are expected to reach 50 million tons (C1 category) and 250 million tons (C2 category). Fieldwork includes over 14,000 metres of core drilling, targeting seams at least 0.7 metres thick with ash content below 45%. Laboratory tests in 2026 will assess the coal’s quality. The results will help determine the deposit’s commercial viability for coking and lean-caking applications.

The exploration aims to secure high-value coal reserves for industrial use. If successful, the Naldinsky deposit could contribute significantly to regional coal production. Final assessments and reserve estimates are due by late 2027.