Akçul emphasized that domestic coal is a national asset and that coal imports endanger the mining sector and Türkiye's energy independence. He said, "While domestic coal mines are closing, our dependence on imported coal is increasing. Türkiye has spent USD 30 billion on imported coal in the past five years. This situation threatens not only our present but also our future."
"20,000 Miners Face Unemployment"
Akçul pointed out that the widespread use of imported coal has stripped domestic production of its competitiveness, leading to a rapid decline in mining employment. He stated that approximately 50,000 miners currently work in the sector, supporting a total of 250,000 people with their families. "If urgent measures are not taken, at least 20,000 miners could lose their jobs within the next year. This would mean that thousands of families would face economic hardship," he said.
"A Türkiye Dependent on Imports Will Undermine Our Independence"
Reminding people of Türkiye's challenges with imports of essential food products and meat, Akçul said that imported coal poses a similar threat. "Just as potato and onion imports in agriculture and meat imports in livestock are a bleeding wound for local producers, imported coal threatens the future of Turkish mining. It is not a sensible solution to remain dependent on imported coal when our national wealth lies underground," he said. Akçul added, "We demand that local coal production be supported. We are fighting for an independent Türkiye with sustainable energy sources, not one dependent on external sources."
"Petroleum Coke Use Is Finishing Mining"
Akçul highlighted that imported petroleum coke is a serious issue alongside coal imports. He stated that importing petroleum coke, a byproduct of the petrochemical industry from abroad, and using it as a substitute for coal poses environmental and human health risks. "This waste, which is banned in many countries around the world, is presented as a more attractive option than coal in Türkiye. This situation jeopardizes both the environment and public health," he said.
Akçul noted that the sulfur limit set for petroleum coke is much higher than that for coal, negatively impacting human health. He urged authorities to stop imports and support domestic coal production.
Finally, Akçul emphasized the ongoing struggle by stating, "We will continue to defend domestic coal against imported coal and petroleum coke. We will stand against any attempt to destroy the livelihoods of our workers, our mines, and our domestic production."
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