TAIYUAN, May 10 (Xinhua) -- China Taiyuan coal transaction price index stood at 144.24 points Monday, up 2.8 percent week on week and marking a consecutive rise for four weeks.

The index, released by China Taiyuan Coal Transaction Center (CTCTC) based in Shanxi, a coal-rich province, reflects the coal price levels and changes in the main production areas of China. It is published every Monday.

Analysts said that purchasing demand of end users continues to be released, and the thermal coal market in producing areas remains tight, causing the prices to rise.

With more than 10,000 registered coal traders, the CTCTC is the largest coal trading center in China. ■