[AndyJackson]

merica does not produce it's own raw materials anymore. It's imported

We export natural gas and oil now.

More insanely, we export matallurgical grade coal to China so that they can make cheap steel and sell it back to us. Tells you something when two trans-oceanic shipments is cheaper than producing it locally.

[clearcarbon]

"More insanely, we export matallurgical grade coal to China so that they can make cheap steel and sell it back to us."

It was either that or go under because someone (something) wanted to put domestic coal out of business.