The St Louis-based company has opened an office in Beijing to meet the growing global demand for metallurgical and thermal coal.

"The opening of an office in China is a natural next step as we raise our stake in the seaborne coal trade," Arch executive vice president and chief operating officer Paul Lang said.

"In particular, a Beijing office will be advantageous as we expand our metallurgical coal portfolio with the addition of high-vol A product from our new Leer mine.”

Arch’s office in Beijing's Chaoyang District will be headed by Zhang Shijie.

Shijie will facilitate metallurgical and thermal coal transactions and logistics and has more than 20 years of experience in importing coal, cokes, minerals and metals.

"We're pleased Zhang Shijie has joined Arch to foster relationships and identify opportunities in China," Lang said.

"He brings a wealth of marketing experience in coal and other commodities and has an excellent business network that will enhance our growing international presence."

Arch said in its 2012 annual report that is was planning an expansion into China.

“In conjunction with our port investments, we have established offices in Singapore, London and soon China to build our business and increase our global market intelligence,” the company said.

“We also are expanding our trading and transportation logistics functions to facilitate the global movement of our coal.

“Looking ahead, we will continue to pursue opportunities to increase North American export capacity in order to penetrate new regions, further expand our customer base and develop advantageous partnerships.”