The Australian east coast port of Newcastle, the world’s largest coal export terminal, has experienced a 20 per cent decrease in weekly exports.

In the week ending January 14, 1.414 million tonnes of coal left Newcastle, compared to the 1.787 million tonnes shipped the week before.

The reduction has been credited to a cut in orders from Japanese customers as they wait for upcoming contract negotiations with Australian suppliers of thermal coal.

Ship queues, which have regularly numbered into the 50’s, averaged 29, which, according to Newcastle Port Corporation data, is the lowest level since August 2006.

The New South Wales Government has appointed Former NSW premier Nick Greiner to assist in the analysis of on-going flaws in Hunter Valley Coal Chain infrastructure and to oversee the development of a new model to handle export allocations.

Port Waratah Coal Services general manager Graham Davidson said it would be critical for industry stakeholders to work in concert with the former premier.

“There is an urgent need to create a commercial framework that stimulates investment and encourages stakeholders to work in an aligned manner,” Mr Davidson said.

“We are hopeful that Mr Greiner will steer the industry towards an export model based on long-term customer contracts, enabling coal chain stakeholders to invest with confidence and certainty.”