China claims ‘quality’ problem with Australian coal as $700 million worth sits idle off ports

China has suggested almost $700 million worth of Australian coal is being held up at ports due to “environmental quality” problems.

For months, dozens of bulk carriers have been stranded off the coast of two major Chinese ports unable to unload their cargoes, with a Bloomberg estimate of more than 60 ships now in limbo in November.

Chinese authorities have not previously explained the exact reasons for the long delays, which have coincided with a series of restrictions and bans…