The Coal Association of Canada recently held its national conference at the Fairmont Hotel in Vancouver and InvestmentPitch.com had the opportunity to sit in at several of the presentations along with more than 350 delegates from 14 countries.

It was appropriate that this conference was held in Vancouver, as Port Metro Vancouver exported approximately 30 million metric tonnes of coal through the Port's facilities during 2010, a 25% increase over 2009. 22 million tonnes or 73% of this total consisted of metallurgical coal. Metallurgical coal, which is less abundant than thermal coal is primarily used in the production of coke which is used in steel production whereas thermal coal is burned for heating or producing energy.

While speakers acknowledged some nervousness about the economic recovery in the US and Europe they concluded that the overall coal market, especially in developing countries like China & India, was very positive.

Mr Jim Griffin Global Head Business Development for Walter Energy said that "Canada is geographically located to supply the rapidly growing Asian markets because of regional advantages not found anywhere else in the world."

Mr Rich Coleman BC's Minister of Energy and Mines stated that "We want the world to know that BC's mining industry is open for business. Coal mining, transportation and exports are significant economic driver in the province and this government is committed to working with companies who want to be a part of the future."

Mr Denis Horgan VP of Westshore Terminals forecasted overall west coast regional port capacity of 70 million tonnes within 5 years.

As Mr Robert Stan chair of the Coal Association of Canada put it that "It is not a question of whether coal will be used in the future, it is a question of how we use it better."