Coal India Limited (CIL) will allow direct participation in its online coal auctions for buyers from Bangladesh, Bhutan, and Nepal, effective January 1, 2026. This revised framework, approved by the CIL board, replaces the previous system where foreign consumers relied on domestic traders. The move aims to enhance transparency, competition, and global market integration by utilizing surplus coal resources. Key provisions for foreign buyers include one-time registration, digital bidding, and advance electronic payments under FEMA rules. The announcement led to a surge in CIL's stock price.