Indonesian coal production has increased in recent years, and Indonesia is currently the world's third largest exporter of steaming coal (after Australia and China). According to the 2008 BP Statistical Energy Survey, Indonesia had end 2007 coal reserves of 4328 million tonnes. Indonesia is one of the leading exporters of sub-bituminous coal which represents the bulk of Indonesian coal production. According to the 2008 BP Statistical Energy Survey, Indonesia had 2007 coal production of 174.83 million tonnes, and consumption of 27.8 million tonnes oil equivalent. Most of Indonesia’s coal reserves are situated in Sumatra in the south, with the balance located in Kalimantan, West Java, and Sulawesi. Coal quality varies, with lower grade lignite (59%), sub bituminous (27%) and high grade bituminous and anthracite (14%).

Indonesia is the world's third largest exporter of steaming coal (after Australia and China). However, it is one of the leading exporters of sub-bituminous coal which represents the bulk of Indonesian coal production. Indonesia's coal production rose by 11.1% in 2003, to 114.6 Mt, and exports increased by 18.3% to 85.68 Mt. Indonesia has approximately 35 billion tons of coal resources, of which 23 billion tons is proven. Most of Indonesia’s coal reserves are situated in Sumatra in the south. Coal quality varies, with lower grade lignite (59%), sub bituminous (27%) and high grade bituminous and anthracite (14%).

The largest producers were PT Adaro (22.5 Mt), PT Kaltim Prima Coal (16.2 Mt), PT Kideco Jaya Agung (14.1 Mt), PT Arutmin (13.6 Mt), PTBA (10.03 Mt), PT Berau Coal (7.36 Mt) and PT Indominco Mandiri (6.3 Mt). All, apart from PTBA, are first-generation coal contractors. Including the smaller first-generation companies, such as PT Tanito Harum (2.18 Mt) and PT Multi Harapan Utama (1.62 Mt), first-generation coal companies produced collectively 80 Mt or 70% of total Indonesian coal production in 2003.

74% of Indonesia’s coal is produced by privately owned coal companies, with the only state owned company, PT Tambang Bukit Asam producing 10 Mt (9% of total production in 2003) from four producing open cast operations. PT Adaro, PT Arutman, PT Berau and PT Kaltim Prima comprise the bulk of Indonesia’s private coal producers. PT Berau has begun production from a new colliery located near Sambarata in East Kalimantan. PT Berau has measured reserves totaling over 550 Mt from its deposits (of which Sambarata is one) located in the northern part of Eastern Kalimantan.