Coal rose to 106.40 USD/T on September 26, 2025, up 1.29% from the previous day. Over the past month, Coal's price has fallen 4.62%, and is down 27.40% compared to the same time last year, according to trading on a contract for difference (CFD) that tracks the benchmark market for this commodity. Coal - values, historical data, forecasts and news - updated on September of 2025.

API2 Rotterdam coal futures amounted to *****U.S. dollars per 1,000 metric tons on September 8, 2025 for contracts with delivery in September 2025. API2 Rotterdam is a Europe-wide coal price benchmark. Import prices for thermal coal became more volatile following the Russia-Ukraine war and European Union sanctions on Russian coal imports. However, since 2024, the AP12 Rotterdam as well as the worldwide coal price index have been comparatively stable.

Learn about thermal coal futures, a financial derivative that allows investors to speculate on the future price movements of thermal coal. Discover how these contracts are traded, the motivations for trading them, and the factors that influence their prices. Understand the benefits and risks associated with investing in thermal coal futures.

Newcastle thermal coal is forecast to have an average price of *** nominal U.S. dollars per metric ton for 2025. By the end of 2029, the Newcastle thermal coal price is expected to amount to ****** nominal U.S. dollars per metric ton.The Newcastle (NEWC) thermal price for coal is the benchmark for seaborne coal contracts within the Asia-Pacific region, which is home to the largest coal producing countries.

China Settlement Price: ZCE: Thermal Coal: 4th Month data was reported at 801.400 RMB/Ton in 13 May 2025. This stayed constant from the previous number of 801.400 RMB/Ton for 12 May 2025. China Settlement Price: ZCE: Thermal Coal: 4th Month data is updated daily, averaging 596.200 RMB/Ton from Sep 2013 (Median) to 13 May 2025, with 2824 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 1,732.400 RMB/Ton in 19 Oct 2021 and a record low of 264.400 RMB/Ton in 30 Dec 2015. China Settlement Price: ZCE: Thermal Coal: 4th Month data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Zhengzhou Commodity Exchange. The data is categorized under China Premium Database’s Financial Market – Table CN.ZB: Zhengzhou Commodity Exchange: Commodity Futures: Settlement Price: Daily.

New Castle Coal Futures are financial contracts traded on the Intercontinental Exchange that allow market participants to manage price risk or speculate on the future price movements of coal. Learn about the factors influencing coal prices, the role of speculation, and the risks involved in trading these contracts.

One of the leading economic industries in Australia, coal mining has contributed significantly to the local economy. In 2024, the price of Australian coal was around 136 U.S. dollars per metric ton. Coal market The contribution of the coal mining industry to Australia’s economy was valued in the billions of Australian dollars. Coal consumption is much lower than production in Australia, so most of the mined coal is exported. In fact, Australia exports the most coal by value out of any other country, with major export partners including China and India. Australia’s reliance on its mining exports may lead to potential problems, particularly if long-term demand drops due to emerging alternative fuel sources, climate action, and increased competition from other coal producing countries. The effect on the tens of thousands of Australian workers in the mining industry may have already been felt, with lower employment numbers recorded recently. Environmental impact Of late, the fugitive emissions from coal mining have come under fire due to their contribution to environmental pollution. In Australia, emissions from underground coal mines were projected to total 19 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent by 2030. With a global focus on reducing air pollution and mitigating climate effects, the future of mining in Australia may not be as certain as it once was.

The size of the Canada Coal Industry market was valued at USD XX Million in 2023 and is projected to reach USD XXX Million by 2032, with an expected CAGR of 3.00% during the forecast period. The Canada coal industry has come at a time when economic factors and environmental policies are melting together, along with a gradual global shift toward renewable energy. Canada has significant coal reserves, largely located in the provinces of Alberta and British Columbia. However, this industry faces immense pressure to curb carbon emissions and look towards cleaner energy sources. The Canadian government has pledged to phase out unabated coal-fired power generation by 2030, aligning with the country's climate goals towards net-zero emission by 2050. Such ambitious policy frameworks shape the future landscape of coal as many operators shift to cleaner alternatives. Despite these challenges, coal remains indispensable for particular industrial applications, such as steel-making, where metallurgical coal is an essential input, and Canada continues to provide large volumes for global markets, primarily to Asia. However, the country's consumption continues to decrease since provinces increase their rules and invest money into renewable energy infrastructure. Exploration opportunities in carbon capture and storage (CCS) technologies are used by the industry as a response to such market dynamics. Therefore, there is a long-run future of the coal industry in Canada, depending on how the companies will adapt themselves to the pressure of regulations and market shifts and increasing demand for sustainable energy solutions. Key drivers for this market are: 4., Rising Industrialization across the Globe4.; Increasing Utilization of Natural Gas. Potential restraints include: 4., High Cost of Installation and Maintenance. Notable trends are: Metallurgy Sector to Witness Significant Growth.

China Turnover: Volume: ZCE: Thermal Coal data was reported at 0.000 Lot in 14 May 2025. This stayed constant from the previous number of 0.000 Lot for 13 May 2025. China Turnover: Volume: ZCE: Thermal Coal data is updated daily, averaging 88,345.000 Lot from Sep 2013 (Median) to 14 May 2025, with 2825 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 1,990,795.000 Lot in 11 Dec 2020 and a record low of 0.000 Lot in 14 May 2025. China Turnover: Volume: ZCE: Thermal Coal data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Zhengzhou Commodity Exchange. The data is categorized under China Premium Database’s Financial Market – Table CN.ZB: Zhengzhou Commodity Exchange: Commodity Futures: Turnover: Daily.

As per Cognitive Market Research's latest published report, The South African Coal market size will be $7,235.85 Million by 2029. The South Africa Coal Industry's Compound Annual Growth Rate will be 3.36% from 2023 to 2030. Factors Affecting the Coal Market

Growing usage of coal in electricity generation: Coal dominates South Africa's domestic energy resource base. South Africa is heavily reliant on coal-fired electricity. Although most African countries are coal-free, a survey finds that South Africa still relies significantly on fossil fuel for electricity generation. Coal is the most frequently utilized primary fuel worldwide, accounting for around 36% of total fuel use in global power production. Coal provides around 77 percent of South Africa's basic energy needs. According to the Ministry of Mineral Resources and Energy, South Africa's total domestic energy-generating capacity is 58,095 megawatts (MW) from all sources. Coal is now South Africa's most important energy source, accounting for over 80% of this country's energy mix. This is continued dramatically in the near the future due to the rising need for electricity across the region. The energy consumption of South Africa is raised by 1.3%/year between 2017 and 2019. To achieve this demand, there is need for coal for electricity generation. According to the 2016 Electricity, Gas, and Water Supply Industry Report, this fossil fuel generated 85,7% of the country's electricity in 2016. Similarly, according to the Ember study, coal produced 84.4 percent of domestic electricity in 2021. As a result, South Africa's electricity-related emissions in 2021 can still surpass those of other African countries, such as Egypt and Kenya. As a result, many of the reserves can be mined at extremely low prices, and South Africa has created a substantial coal-mining sector. South Africa's coal baseload independent power producer procurement project aims to buy 2 500 megawatts of coal-fired power output by December 2021. It also intends to use funds from industrialized nations and financial organizations to construct transformers, distribution technologies, and substations. Hence, the growing usage of coal in electricity generation drives the growth of the South African coal market.

Restraint for South Africa Coal market

Difficulties associated with the coal mining: One of the major restraints hindering the growth of the coal market is the increasing operational and environmental difficulties associated with coal mining. As easily accessible coal reserves are depleted, mining companies are forced to extract coal from deeper, more geologically complex, and environmentally sensitive regions. This not only raises production costs significantly but also escalates safety risks for workers and increases the environmental impact. In regions like India and parts of Africa, for instance, coal mining has led to the displacement of communities, water contamination, and deforestation, prompting stronger opposition from local populations and environmental groups. Moreover, regulatory bodies across the globe are tightening mining guidelines, enforcing stricter air and water pollution controls, and mandating land reclamation measures. These requirements often lead to operational delays and higher compliance costs. In the U.S., several coal mines have shut down in the past decade due to a combination of lower profitability and stringent environmental regulations. Additionally, mounting scrutiny from ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) investors is causing financial institutions to reduce funding for coal projects. As a result, even major coal-producing nations are beginning to shift investments toward cleaner energy alternatives, making coal mining not only more difficult but also less economically viable in the long term.

Trends in the Coking Coal Market

Continued Demand from Steel Production Amid Infrastructure Expansion: Coking coal is an essential component in blast furnace steelmaking, and its demand remains robust, especially in developing nations engaged in extensive infrastructure and industrial growth. Countries such as India, China, and various Southeast Asian nations are propelling steel demand for construction, transportation, and urbanization, which consequently drives consistent consumption of metallurgical (coking) coal. In spite of worldwide decarbonization initiatives, conventional steelma...

It is forecast that the average price for hard coking coal in 2029 will be ****** nominal U.S. dollars per metric ton. Meanwhile, the average price for semi-soft coking coal is forecast to be ****** nominal U.S. dollars per metric ton that year.

The global coal trading market, while facing headwinds from the global push towards renewable energy sources, continues to demonstrate resilience, driven by persistent demand in key regions and applications. The market's size in 2025 is estimated at $500 billion, reflecting a robust presence despite declining growth. A compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 2% is projected for the forecast period 2025-2033, indicating a gradual but steady expansion. This moderate growth is attributed to a complex interplay of factors. Strong demand from developing economies in Asia, particularly for power generation, continues to fuel the market. However, stricter environmental regulations in developed nations, coupled with increasing investments in renewable energy infrastructure, are acting as significant restraints. Market segmentation reveals that thermal coal continues to dominate, although metallurgical coal, used in steel production, maintains a considerable share. Key players such as Arch Coal, Coal India, and Glencore are strategically adapting their operations, focusing on efficiency improvements and diversification to navigate the evolving energy landscape. Regional variations are pronounced, with Asia Pacific maintaining its leading position, while North America and Europe experience slower growth due to decarbonization initiatives. The future trajectory of the coal trading market hinges on several crucial factors. The pace of renewable energy adoption, government policies supporting clean energy transitions, and global economic growth will significantly influence demand. Furthermore, technological advancements aimed at reducing coal's carbon footprint, such as carbon capture and storage (CCS), could play a pivotal role in shaping the market's future. Despite the challenges, the continued reliance on coal in several sectors, particularly in developing nations, suggests that the coal trading market will remain a significant player in the global energy mix for the foreseeable future, albeit with a moderated growth trajectory compared to past periods. Strategic alliances, mergers and acquisitions, and efficient supply chain management will be critical factors for success within this evolving industry.

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Metallurgical Coal Market Size 2025-2029

The metallurgical coal market size is forecast to increase by USD 99.6 billion at a CAGR of 4.8% between 2024 and 2029.

The metallurgical coal market is propelled by rising global steel demand, particularly in Asia Pacific, where infrastructure projects and smart city initiatives drive significant consumption. Technological advancements, such as 3D mine visualizers and proximity detection systems, enhance mining efficiency, supporting market growth. In North America, steady demand stems from automotive and construction sectors, while Europe's market thrives due to steel production in countries like Germany and Russia. Sustainability trends push for high-quality coal to support efficient, eco-friendly steel production. However, the volatility in prices of metallurgical coal, influenced by supply and demand dynamics and geopolitical factors, poses a significant risk for market participants.

Companies seeking to capitalize on the opportunities presented by this market must adopt strategic sourcing and pricing strategies. Additionally, investments in technological advancements, such as automation and mechanization, can help improve operational efficiency and reduce costs. Overall, the market offers substantial growth potential for companies able to navigate the price volatility and adapt to evolving market conditions.

What will be the Size of the Metallurgical Coal Market during the forecast period?

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The market encompasses the production and trade of coal used primarily in steel manufacturing. This market exhibits dynamic behavior, influenced by various factors. High-sulphur utilization and medium-ash applications in iron ore smelting remain significant drivers, while price fluctuations in thermal coal markets can impact metallurgical coal demand. Environmental concerns, including air pollution and mining safety, necessitate continued innovation in mining industry practices and technologies. Mining resources and reserves, mining sustainability, and mining equipment automation are essential considerations for market participants. Steel industry outlook, infrastructure development, and sustainable infrastructure projects, such as bridge construction and commercial space development, shape demand for metallurgical coal.
Renewable energy alternatives and sustainable mining practices are gaining traction, potentially impacting the market's future direction. Mining project management, equipment maintenance, and mining investment are crucial elements in the metallurgical coal supply chain. Steel production technology advancements and iron ore smelting processes continue to evolve, influencing the market's size and direction. The transportation and logistics sector plays a vital role in delivering coal to consumers, ensuring efficient and cost-effective solutions. Mining industry outlook remains positive, driven by the ongoing demand for steel and infrastructure development.

How is this Metallurgical Coal Industry segmented?

The metallurgical coal industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD billion' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments.

Application

  Steel making
  Non-steel making


Type

  Hard coking coals
  Semi-soft coking coals
  Pulverized coal injection
  Medium Coking Coal


End-User

  Iron and Steel Industry
  Chemical and Pharmaceutical
  Foundry Industry
  Non-Steel Production
  Power Industry


Geography

  APAC

    China
    India


  North America

    US
    Canada


  Europe

    France
    Germany
    Russia
    UK


  Middle East and Africa

    UAE


  South America

    Brazil


  Rest of World

By Application Insights

The steel making segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.

Metallurgical coal plays a crucial role in steel manufacturing as it is the primary input for coke production in the blast furnace process and the electric arc furnace (EAF) route. Steel production, a key indicator of economic development, saw a 3.3% increase in global crude steel output to 145.5 million tons (Mt) in November 2023, according to the World Steel Association. Concurrently, the global apparent steel use per capita surpassed 200 kilograms, marking an over 10% rise. Both steel manufacturing processes, BF-BOF and EAF, necessitate metallurgical coal. While the former requires substantial volumes, the latter demands lower quantities.

The steel industry's growth is driven by infrastructure development, urbanization, and the increasing demand for construction, high-grade steel for various industries, and premium hard coking coal for medical applications. The market dynamics are influenced by factors such as coal quality standards, sustainable mining practices, carbon footprint re

China Settlement Price: Dalian Commodity Exchange: Coking Coal: 4th Month data was reported at 875.000 RMB/Ton in 13 May 2025. This records a decrease from the previous number of 876.500 RMB/Ton for 12 May 2025. China Settlement Price: Dalian Commodity Exchange: Coking Coal: 4th Month data is updated daily, averaging 1,253.500 RMB/Ton from Mar 2013 (Median) to 13 May 2025, with 2948 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 3,781.500 RMB/Ton in 19 Oct 2021 and a record low of 499.000 RMB/Ton in 24 Nov 2015. China Settlement Price: Dalian Commodity Exchange: Coking Coal: 4th Month data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Dalian Commodity Exchange. The data is categorized under China Premium Database’s Financial Market – Table CN.ZB: Dalian Commodity Exchange: Commodity Futures: Settlement Price: Daily.

TraditionData’s Coal Markets Data & Pricing service provides independent end-of-day data for global coal benchmarks, essential for market risk assessment and trading.

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• Coverage typically spans up to 3 years, with historical data available on request.

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Learn about coal futures Newcastle, the trading of futures contracts for coal in the important coal exporting hub in Australia. Discover how these contracts enable market participants to manage price risks, secure future supplies or sales, and potentially generate profits through speculative trading.

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Japan Coal Market Size 2024-2028

The Japan coal market size is forecast to increase by USD 4.5 billion, at a CAGR of 2% between 2023 and 2028.

The market is experiencing significant growth due to the adoption of advanced electricity generation technologies that increase efficiency and reduce the environmental impact of coal usage. Another key trend is the shift towards the utilization of liquid forms of coal as fuel and for electricity production. However, the market faces challenges such as the uncertainty in demand and pricing of coal, which can impact the profitability of coal producers and utilities. These factors, among others, are shaping the market growth.

What will be the Size of the Market During the Forecast Period?

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The market plays a significant role in the global energy sector, supplying a substantial portion of the world's electricity. However, the energy landscape is undergoing a transformation, driven by various factors shaping the future of the power sector. Governments worldwide are formulating energy strategies and policies to promote sustainable development and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, with the shift towards renewable energy sources and energy efficiency gaining momentum. The industrial sector remains a major energy consumer, with thermal power plants contributing significantly to coal demand. However, energy efficiency and automation trends are leading to decreased energy intensity, thereby reducing the demand for coal. Environmental concerns regarding coal consumption are driving the transition towards cleaner energy sources, and the global push for carbon neutrality aligns with sustainable development goals.
Energy security and independence are vital for many countries, with coal production and imports playing a role. However, the renewable energy sector is growing due to favorable policies and competitive pricing. The coal industry is investing in carbon capture technologies to reduce emissions, while energy conservation and off-grid solutions are promoting efficiency. Research and technological advancements in energy storage and grid modernization further support the transition to renewable energy, reducing reliance on coal. As the energy sector transitions to a low-carbon future, the coal market faces challenges, requiring a well-planned roadmap to navigate this shift. The energy sector is at a crossroads, with the future focusing on cleaner, more sustainable energy.

How is this market segmented and which is the largest segment?

The market research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD billion' for the period 2024-2028, as well as historical data from 2018-2022 for the following segments.

Type

  Thermal coal
  Metallurgical coal


Source

  Import
  Domestic


Geography

  Japan

By Type Insights

The thermal coal segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.

Coal continues to be a significant and cost-effective energy source for power generation in various economies. In 2023, coal-fueled power generation accounted for over 30% of Japan's total electricity production. Thermal coal is the primary fuel used in power plants to generate electricity. To enhance the thermal efficiency of power generation and decrease emissions, countries are transitioning to high-efficiency, low-emission (HELE) coal-fired power plants. Innovative combustion technologies, such as ultra-supercritical (USC) and advanced ultra-supercritical (AUSC), are being developed and implemented. As a result, the demand for thermal coal is projected to rise during the forecast period due to its affordability as an energy source and the anticipated reduction in carbon dioxide emissions through the adoption of advanced technologies.

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Market Dynamics

Our market researchers analyzed the data with 2023 as the base year, along with the key drivers, trends, and challenges. A holistic analysis of drivers will help companies refine their marketing strategies to gain a competitive advantage.

What are the key market drivers leading to the rise in the market?

Better electricity generation technology is the key driver of the market.

The market is a significant contributor to global power production, with coal-fired power stations being the primary source of electricity for many countries. However, the use of coal in power generation raises concerns regarding air pollution and the associated health disorders. To mitigate these issues, there is a growing emphasis on renewable energy generation, such as solar power, as an alternative energy source. The solar park scheme and supportive policies for renewable energy capacity expansion are gaining traction in various sectors, including telecom, hospitality, and industrial growth in emerging

Metallurgical coal futures allow investors to speculate on the future price of metallurgical coal. This article explores the key features of these futures contracts, the market participants involved, and the risks and benefits associated with trading them.

Coal mined by global coal mining companies has played a vital role in the world's ability to generate electricity and manufacture steel. Coal's position in global electricity markets stems from its relative accessibility, affordability and distribution across the globe. China, Indonesia, the United States and India are the world's largest coal producers. These countries are expected to retain their positions in the foreseeable future. The period started off shaky since it was the start of the pandemic, and revenue dipped as steel production and energy generation sunk. As the economy recovered, global coal prices spiked in 2021 and 2022, which allowed miners to benefit tremendously in revenue and profitability. These gains were short-lived as revenue crept back down from 2023 to 2025, as supply chain issues sorted out and prices normalized. Overall, industry revenue has grown at a CAGR of 20.1% over the past five years, reaching $1.6 trillion by 2025, including a 3.0% dip in 2025 alone. Environmental concerns prompted many countries to seek ways to transition away from coal-powered electricity generation, thereby boosting capacity for renewable and nonrenewable energy sources like wind, solar and natural gas. Many steel producers have switched to electric arc furnaces, eliminating the need for coal in manufacturing. Even so, coal is still an essential piece of the global power generation ecosystem, as many developing nations have continued to boost the number of coal power plants. Through 2029, the need for coal will drop. Most countries with developed and developing economies will continue to transition their energy generation towards renewable sources. This will cause many mines to shut down or consolidate, causing massive layoffs, primarily in China and India. Coking coal prices are set to sink, forcing global miners to adjust their prices, reducing revenue. Many established countries are also shutting down coal power plants or reconfiguring them into renewable or natural gas plants, lowering the need for coal. Nonetheless, coal is still inexpensive and very accessible to developing nations, which will keep the need for coal elevated. Overall, revenue is set to dip at a CAGR of 0.1% to $1.6 trillion in 2030.

The global coal trade market is a substantial industry, exhibiting consistent growth despite increasing pressure for decarbonization. While precise figures for market size and CAGR are unavailable in the provided data, a reasonable estimate, based on publicly available industry reports and considering the current market dynamics, suggests a 2025 market size of approximately $800 billion USD. This value is derived from considering global energy consumption trends and the persistent role of coal in power generation, particularly in developing economies. Assuming a moderate CAGR of 2% for the forecast period (2025-2033), the market is projected to reach approximately $970 billion by 2033. This growth, however, is expected to be unevenly distributed geographically, with some regions experiencing decline due to stricter environmental regulations and the rise of renewable energy sources. Key drivers include the continued reliance on coal-fired power plants, particularly in Asia and emerging markets. The increasing demand for steel and other metallurgical coal applications also contributes to market growth. However, significant restraints exist, primarily the global push towards climate change mitigation and the increasing implementation of carbon pricing mechanisms, which put considerable pressure on the industry to transition towards cleaner energy alternatives. The competitive landscape is characterized by a mix of large multinational corporations and regional players. Key players like Mitsui & Co., Mitsubishi Corporation, and China Minmetals Corporation dominate the market through their extensive global networks and established trading expertise. However, smaller regional players and emerging companies also play significant roles, often specializing in specific coal types or geographic regions. Future market trends will likely be shaped by a combination of factors, including the fluctuating global energy prices, stricter environmental regulations, technological advancements in carbon capture and storage, and geopolitical factors that influence coal supply and demand. These factors will dictate the growth trajectory of this dynamic and evolving market segment.