World Business Report Could there be a revival of the coal industry?
Apr 1, 2026
Discussion of recent policy shifts as several Asian countries lift limits and expand coal-fired power. A short-term surge in coal use and price effects are explored alongside climate and financing constraints. Markets, oil price moves and inflation ripple effects are also covered. A tech history segment recalls the naming and branding behind a famous consumer computer.
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Driver Voices Show Immediate Pain From Rising Fuel
- Drivers in the US described rising fuel costs as 'insane' and blamed the Iran war for price pressure.
- The programme opened with driver voices highlighting personal hardship and supply concerns from the conflict.
Government Measures To Ease Fuel Prices
- Governments are using direct measures to curb fuel pain, like Australia halving its fuel excise and Germany limiting daily station price rises.
- Australian PM Anthony Albanese announced a 26 cent per litre tax cut and Germany capped price increases to once per day.
Short Term Coal Resurgence Driven By Geopolitics
- Short-term coal resurgence is driven by immediate energy security needs amid the Iran war and rising fuel costs.
- South Korea lifted coal caps, Philippines and Vietnam are expanding coal power, and Italy kept plants running, showing region-specific rebounds.