Coal Industry Ministry plans to close one third of state-owned mines

“The profitability of a ton of coal totals about UAH 25,000 [or 1,000 US dollars] at some mines, and coal will soon become [as precious as] gold. We will be forced to close most unprofitable mines, which total 11-13", Nasalyk said. At the same time, the minister noted that seven most profitable state-owned mines will continue their work. All the rest will be handed over for privatization, according to the official.