Xi’s Push for Energy Security Puts Mining Safety on the Backburner
A recent coal mine explosion in Shanxi province, China, resulted in the deaths of at least 82 miners and injuries to over 120 others. Despite improvements in mining safety over the years, the incident highlights ongoing concerns about the enforcement of safety regulations. President Xi Jinping's focus on energy security may be compromising the prioritization of mining safety measures.
- ▪At least 82 miners were killed and over 120 were injured in a coal mine explosion in Shanxi province.
- ▪China has seen significant improvements in mining safety since the early 2000s, with a decline in deadly incidents.
- ▪The enforcement of safety regulations was transferred to central and provincial governments to enhance oversight.
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ColumnAsia-Pacific Xi’s Push for Energy Security Puts Mining Safety on the BackburnerMary GallagherMay 26, 2026May 26, 2026Rescuers gather at the site of the Liushenyu coal mine, in Changzhi, Shanxi province, China, May 23, 2026. (China News Service photo by Wei Liang via AP) Share this:Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window)Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)Click to share on Email (Opens in new window) At least 82 miners were killed and over 120 more were injured in a devastating coal mine explosion last Friday in China’s northwestern Shanxi province. China has long had trouble with mining safety, with the early 2000s representing a nadir.
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