Chapter 337: Raising Eyes to the World
After boarding the plane, Liu Naishun, a successful businessman, quickly noticed something subtle.
Li Tang, the renowned yet elusive owner behind various major companies, appeared to be here not solely for work. Although initially involved in assisting Wukuang Group's acquisition negotiations, he seemed mostly unconcerned with business matters.
Instead, he sat side by side with his beautiful girlfriend, whispering sweet nothings to each other, occasionally laughing softly, and even playfully feeding each other French fries.
This didn't look like a business trip at all; it looked far more like a romantic vacation.
It wasn't just Li Tang himself—the few young colleagues accompanying him spent their mornings enjoying leisurely breakfasts, basking lazily in the sunshine, sipping coffee or afternoon tea, and wandering the city streets by night. They looked like tourists on vacation rather than serious businessmen.
Initially, Liu Naishun had great expectations upon hearing of Li Tang's arrival, given Li's substantial wealth and influence. But observing the relaxed atmosphere, he adjusted his hopes downward and instead shifted his attention and efforts toward Xie Jiashu from Shenxia Group.
On the flight heading west across Canada toward Vancouver, Liu specifically chose a seat beside Xie Jiashu.
"Shenxia Group doesn't seem to have made many overseas investments," Liu initiated the conversation.
"True," Xie Jiashu acknowledged. "Our company's main focus has always been coal production and processing, primarily within China."
Xie continued, curious about Liu, "I heard you previously worked at Kailuan Coal Mine Company in Shanxi Province?"
"Yes, I worked there for several years." Liu readily shared parts of his past. "I used to teach in a rural school, later participated in the college entrance examination, and was admitted to a teacher-training university. After graduation, I joined Kailuan Coal Mine Company, and stayed there until 1997 before leaving."
"And then you started your own coal business?" Xie inquired, becoming increasingly interested in Liu's journey.
Indeed, without Li Tang suggesting Liu's name, Shenxia Group would never have known that this man had deep ties to China's coal industry, and was now developing coal projects in Canada. Upon deeper research following Li Tang's recommendation, they discovered Liu was actually quite legendary.
"Yes, I'm not someone who enjoys settling down. Every few years, life feels too calm, and I feel compelled to try something new," Liu replied without detailing too much of his past business experiences, implying everyone has some secrets.
Xie respectfully avoided prying further but praised Liu sincerely. "Kailuan Coal Mine is one of China's leading coal producers, especially renowned for coking coal mining and refining, particularly in Shanxi Province. You had a stable, prosperous job but chose to give that up and pursue business independently. Later, even after succeeding in coal and tourism businesses domestically, you chose to move to Canada to start all over again. Such courage and daring ambition are truly admirable!"
Liu smiled warmly. "People from Shanxi Province have always been known for our adventurous spirit."
"Is running coal businesses in Canada more profitable than in China?" Xie asked bluntly.
"Speaking honestly…" Liu laughed awkwardly. "De Yi Mining Group, since its establishment, has always been investing without any real profit yet. Frankly speaking, it hasn't been a profitable venture thus far."
"But I've heard your investments have been substantial," Xie commented.
"You could say this industry has enormous potential," Liu responded meaningfully.
"Oh?" Xie was immediately intrigued.
He understood China's coal industry thoroughly but knew almost nothing about Canada's coal market or even basic local conditions. If Shenxia Group was indeed going to invest here, finding an experienced local guide was vital.
"As we know," Liu explained, "China holds the largest overall coal reserves globally. But when we specifically discuss premium coking coal, China's reserves aren't much higher than Canada's. China's premium coking coal deposits are scattered and difficult to mine efficiently. With current reckless extraction methods, those reserves won't sustain long-term mining operations."
Liu spoke from experience. "I recently read a statistic that China now operates more than 10,000 coal mines—an unimaginable number. Everywhere you look, people are mining coal."
Xie acknowledged this troubling issue. "Indeed, coal in China guarantees immediate profit once mined. Every coal mine has queues of trucks waiting, cash ready, coal sold the moment it's extracted. Our economic growth demands massive electricity generation, inflating coal prices and production dramatically."
"Exactly," Liu nodded knowingly. "But Canada's situation is different. They possess vast coal resources but only extract about 50 to 60 million tons annually. Moreover, Canada has merely around twenty operational coal mines nationwide."
"Only twenty?" Xie wondered aloud. "Does coal mining here not yield profit?"
"Oh, it definitely does," Liu laughed openly, willingly sharing insider insights. "Forgive me for repeatedly comparing China with Canada, but this contrast was precisely what motivated me to take huge risks and invest heavily in Canadian coal."
"I understand," Xie encouraged him to continue.
"I'll be blunt. Most of China's coking coal has high sulfur and high ash content—overall, quality isn't exceptional. Only our extensive, rapid development allows us to overlook these drawbacks. If stricter environmental and quality standards were implemented, many Chinese coking coal mines wouldn't meet requirements."
Liu continued thoughtfully. "Canada's coal reserves are different. They have vast deposits of premium coking coal—low sulfur, moderate ash, and excellent coking properties. This land is truly blessed by nature. Large deposits, high quality. Any coal mined here will be extremely competitive internationally!"
"You keep mentioning Canada's abundant reserves; could you elaborate?" Xie requested eagerly.
"Half of China's coal reserves are in Shanxi Province. Similarly, Canada's largest coal reserves are concentrated in British Columbia Province, with an especially high proportion of premium coking coal."
Liu explained excitedly, "High-quality coking coal can sometimes fetch prices two or three times higher than thermal coal. Profitable coal mining inevitably involves premium coking coal. That's precisely why I abandoned my stable domestic ventures and committed myself wholeheartedly to Canadian coal."
Xie genuinely admired Liu's bold entrepreneurial spirit. Reflecting honestly, Xie admitted to himself he might lack Liu's courage to risk such a leap.
"You truly are a uniquely independent-minded businessman," Xie praised, then puzzled, added, "Since Canada's coal resources are so excellent, why only twenty mines nationwide? Why haven't production levels increased? High-quality coking coal is scarce internationally, and buyers would eagerly purchase larger volumes."
"That brings us to another distinct difference in coal-mining practices between China and Canada," Liu responded.
"You still remember such precise Chinese idioms despite being abroad so long?" Xie joked good-naturedly.
Liu smiled, "I was a teacher once, teaching Chinese language."
Talking about language reminded Liu of his passion for literature. Even now, he often wrote essays or poems in his spare time, nurturing his inner world. But he realized Xie was far more interested in coal than poetry today, so he redirected the topic back to business.
"Chinese coal mining is predominantly underground," Liu explained. "Although precise statistics aren't public, during my years at Kailuan Coal Company and my subsequent coal trading years, every mine I saw was underground mining. I suspect that's true nationwide."
"Yes, nearly all Shenxia Group's coal mines are underground," Xie confirmed. "Surface mining inevitably transitions underground eventually."
"But Canada differs greatly."
"Oh?"
"Canada has few coal mines, but every one of them operates exclusively as surface mines."
"Their coal seams are very shallow?" Xie wondered.
Surface mining required shallow coal seams, being cheaper and safer compared to underground operations, which were prone to frequent accidents. Everyone preferred surface mining, but coal seams always dipped deeper underground eventually.
"Shallow coal seams are one aspect," Liu explained, smiling. "More importantly, Canadians lack underground coal mining technology and equipment."
This revelation was eye-opening for Xie and the others nearby.
"In fact," Liu added pointedly, "China's underground coal mining technology and equipment lead the world by far!"
Xie realized Liu's implication immediately. "So Canadians don't know underground mining?"
"Exactly!" Liu confirmed. "That's another critical reason I firmly believe Canada's coal industry has vast untapped potential."
He elaborated further, "They simply don't have underground mining technology, equipment, or skilled workers!"
Xie expressed genuine astonishment, "Your insights are truly enlightening. Without your explanation, we wouldn't have understood Canada's unique coal-mining landscape."
"Mining practices here aren't limited to coal," Liu added warmly. "They differ significantly across minerals regarding management systems, environmental regulations, and labor relations. If Shenxia Group decides to invest in Canadian coal, I'll happily provide all possible assistance."
Xie was delighted, declaring sincerely, "This trip has already surpassed our expectations!"
This journey had expanded Shenxia Group's vision far beyond domestic horizons. With new international opportunities now clearly visible, why limit their ambitions only within China's borders?
Canada offered Shenxia Group a vast stage. Perhaps the time had come to step out confidently, raise their eyes to the global horizon, and dance boldly under a brighter, wider sky.
Soon after landing in Vancouver, Liu led the delegation directly to De Yi Mining Group's coal mine, ready to show them its incredible potential.
Bull Ridge Town was nestled in the eastern foothills of the Rocky Mountains. Situated at a relatively high altitude, the terrain was rugged, and distant mountaintops covered in perpetual snow were visible year-round.
The scenery here was picturesque, with lush vegetation flourishing everywhere.
The lumber trade had become a primary source of income for some townspeople. However, most residents made their living through mining. Beneath their feet lay countless black jewels—coal deposits.
Several major Canadian coal mines were situated within this region. If Shanxi Province was known as China's capital of coal, then this place was undoubtedly Canada's coal capital.
The site Liu Naishun had brought them to visit did not have scenes of bustling activity nor trains loaded with coal rumbling by. Instead, it remained peaceful, with verdant hills and clear streams, scarcely a soul around.
Yet no one could deny the immense wealth hidden beneath this tranquil landscape. This enormous potential was precisely why Liu Naishun had traveled thousands of miles, taking on substantial risk to invest here.
They stood where a coal seam emerged on the surface. Liu Naishun picked up a loose piece of coal from the ground. Possibly due to the morning dew or overnight drizzle, the coal was soft and crumbled easily under his fingers, leaving black smudges beneath his nails.
"This area is where our De Yi Mining Group holds exploration rights. We call this coal mine Gaisen Coal Mine."
Holding the piece of coal, Liu explained to everyone present, "We obtained the exploration rights just last year and are currently carrying out intensive drilling activities. Up to now, we've completed about 180 drill holes, and over 140 have intersected coal seams."
"How large are the reserves, and what's the coal quality like?" Xie Jiashu inquired directly.
As Shenxia Group's representative, he naturally sought detailed information to report back to Li Xingchao.
"The resources amount to over 300 million tons," Liu answered. Gazing affectionately at the coal in his hand as if it were his newlywed bride, he continued, "The quality is exceptional, with excellent beneficiation potential and a notably high proportion of coking coal and fat coal. Based on my understanding of global coal deposits, the quality here is truly rare worldwide."
Li Tang crouched down and carefully picked up a small lump of coal, examining it closely.
In truth, it was difficult to determine the precise quality of coal visually; accurate assessment required laboratory analysis. However, Li Tang, as someone with substantial experience, already understood the quality of the coal here very well.
Just as Liu Naishun had said, the coal deposits here were uniquely high-quality and exceptionally rare globally—and their reserves were genuinely enormous.
"What do you think?" Xie Jiashu asked, recalling Li Xingchao's instructions to follow Li Tang's guidance in all matters during this trip.
"Very good," Li Tang nodded slightly.
When Liu Naishun saw Li Tang had brought his girlfriend along, he'd initially not expected much in terms of Li Tang investing here. Nonetheless, he had remained respectful, given Li Tang's distinguished reputation.
"We hold mining rights to approximately 220 square kilometers around here," Liu explained confidently, proud of his company's accomplishment. After all, these were the fruits of his bold venture. If he could successfully develop this 300-million-ton premium coal deposit, his fortune would undoubtedly soar.
Of course, developing such a large project required substantial funding—hundreds of millions of dollars at a minimum. Liu couldn't provide that much capital alone, so seeking powerful partners became inevitable.
"Three hundred million tons of coal is indeed quite impressive," Li Tang agreed, before raising a question: "Canada has so many excellent mining companies and boasts the world's best financing channels. Coal prices on the international market are continuously rising, indicating that coal mining is profitable. Why have you managed to secure such a valuable resource?"
Canada's mining market was unquestionably among the most prosperous globally. Over half of the world's publicly listed mining companies were listed in Canada, illustrating the industry's dominance and dynamism.
In such a vibrant market, profitable mining opportunities always attracted investors. The fact that Liu Naishun had obtained such a clearly lucrative project puzzled Li Tang.
"I already discussed this with Minister Xie on the plane," Liu replied, looking towards Xie Jiashu.
"Indeed," Xie acknowledged, though he still hadn't fully grasped the explanation.
"People from China, especially those familiar with coal mining, view coal as easy money," Liu patiently explained again. "We all think coal mining is highly profitable, but Canadians don't necessarily share that perspective."
"Are they foolish?" Li Tang joked.
Fortunately, the Canadian guide and local employees of De Yi Mining nearby didn't understand Mandarin, or else they'd have strongly protested.
"Not exactly," Liu shook his head, revealing the answer, "As I mentioned to Minister Xie earlier, Canada lacks the technology, equipment, and trained workforce necessary for underground coal mining."
"That's truly surprising," Li Tang found this explanation novel. "Canada leads globally in mining exploration and extraction techniques. Their diamond mining technology, for example, reaches depths of 3,000 meters—second only to South Africa—and they have a robust talent development and mining support system. I didn't expect they'd have a blind spot."
"Exactly. China's underground mining expertise provides a significant competitive edge," Liu smiled and nodded. "What appears to us as an easy business doesn't apply here."
Seeing Li Tang's puzzled expression, Liu elaborated further, "In Canada, you couldn't hire even a single qualified underground coal miner!"
"That's genuinely troublesome," Li Tang finally understood.
"For developing Gaisen Coal Mine, I even considered hiring hundreds of skilled coal miners from China. But obtaining work visas for them is another major hurdle."
Liu clearly recognized this obstacle and had already considered various countermeasures.
Li Tang tossed the coal back onto the ground, his gaze following its descent, raising another question, "Given that coal seams outcrop at the surface, why must you mine underground?"
"Surface coal seams here are very limited," Liu replied. Realizing Li Tang's expertise, he explained further: "Canadian coal seams, similar to Shanxi Province, have two major layers: the Gates Formation and the Gething Formation. The upper Gates coal seams are thicker, while the lower Gething seams are thinner. The surface-mined coal we saw while traveling was primarily from the Gates Formation, which is exposed at the surface."
"Here, the coal is mainly from the Gething Formation?" Li Tang deduced based on the name of the coal mine.
"Correct," Liu confirmed. "The Gates coal seams are thick but have mostly weathered or lie buried thousands of meters below ground, making extraction challenging. Only the deeper Gething seams, relatively intact between depths of 100 and 1,000 meters, are suitable—but they require underground mining."
"I see," Li Tang nodded knowingly.
"Our company's strategy focuses on exploring areas neglected by Canadian mining companies, who prefer easily accessible surface-mined coal," Liu explained further, gesturing to the ground beneath them. "Yet beneath our feet, just about 100 meters downwards, lie vast coal resources!"
"Impressive!" Li Tang admired Liu's unique business strategy, recognizing the astute insight that had guided Liu here.
However, Liu remained cautious, aware that substantial hurdles remained before profits could materialize.
"To develop these coal resources, we can't rely on Canadian capital or technology alone. We must utilize Chinese technology and equipment."
"That's why we're here," Li Tang smiled.
"Are you interested in investing in this coal project?" Liu asked, clearly astonished.
Initially, he'd assumed Li Tang's visit was more recreational. His research had indicated Li Tang's remarkable success with iron and copper-gold mines but little activity in coal.
Li Tang nodded, smiling sincerely, "Your insights and vision have genuinely inspired me. I'm very interested in coal development." He turned to Xie Jiashu, "Minister Xie, what's your opinion?"
"Our Shenxia Group has explicitly instructed me to prioritize your judgment," Xie quickly confirmed. "If you're interested in investing here, we'll definitely follow your lead. However, detailed investment plans require thorough data review and approval from our leadership back home."
Realizing Shenxia Group's interest hinged entirely on Li Tang's opinion, Liu wished he'd focused more on persuading Li Tang during the flight.
"If you're considering Gaisen Coal Mine, that's fantastic—this mine is incredibly rare and valuable!" Liu enthusiastically promoted his project.
Li Tang smiled enigmatically, "Gaisen Coal Mine is indeed excellent, but frankly, 300 million tons is still slightly lacking."
Liu felt a jolt of surprise. Such appetite, such boldness! A premium coal reserve of 300 million tons, with substantial proportions of prime coking coal, was already exceedingly rare, even by global standards!
However, recalling Li Tang's legendary accomplishments—especially with Zhongcheng Mining, which controlled the 6-billion-ton Tarego Coal Mine, including 1.8 billion tons of prime coking coal—Liu reconsidered his astonishment.
"Are you suggesting you're seeking something even larger?" Liu asked tentatively.
Li Tang nodded, pointing forward with determination, "Look north."
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