Coal fell to 114.90 USD/T on August 1, 2025, down 0.22% from the previous day. Over the past month, Coal's price has risen 2.77%, but it is still 19.40% lower than a year ago, 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 August of 2025.

The global coal price index reached 140.02 index points in June 2025. This was an increase compared to the previous month, which also reflected a rise in the overall fuel energy price index. The global coal index expresses trading of Australian and South African coal, as both countries are among the largest exporters of coal worldwide. How coal profited from the 2022 gas crunch Throughout 2022, coal prices saw a significant net increase. This was largely due to greater fuel and electricity demand as countries slowly exited more stringent coronavirus restrictions, as well as fallout from the Russia-Ukraine war. As many European countries moved to curtailing gas imports from Russia, coal became the alternative to fill the power supply gap, more than doubling the annual average price index between 2021 and 2022. Main coal traders and receivers Although China makes up by far the largest share of worldwide coal production, it is among those countries consuming the majority of its extracted raw materials domestically. In terms of exports, Indonesia, the world's third-largest coal producer, trades more coal than any other country, followed by Australia and Russia. Meanwhile, Japan, China, and India are among the leading coal importers, as these countries rely heavily on coal for electricity and heat generation.

On July 11, 2025, the U.S. Central Appalachian coal price stood at 79 U.S. dollars per short ton. Prices have been especially stable throughout the first half of 2025, with figures staying below 80 U.S. dollars. Central Appalachian coal is produced in parts of Eastern Kentucky, Virginia, West Virginia, and Tennessee. In 2023, the annual Central Appalachian coal spot price stood at 73.59 U.S. dollars per metric ton.

Learn about the various factors that influence coal prices in the international market, including global economic conditions, geopolitical events, environmental regulations, technological advancements, and the availability of alternative energy sources.

China Market Price: Power Coal: 5500-6000 Calorie: Price at Mines data was reported at 560.000 RMB/Ton in Feb 2019. This records a decrease from the previous number of 565.000 RMB/Ton for Jan 2019. China Market Price: Power Coal: 5500-6000 Calorie: Price at Mines data is updated monthly, averaging 493.000 RMB/Ton from Apr 2014 (Median) to Feb 2019, with 59 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 631.000 RMB/Ton in Dec 2018 and a record low of 322.000 RMB/Ton in Jan 2016. China Market Price: Power Coal: 5500-6000 Calorie: Price at Mines data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Price Monitoring Center, NDRC. The data is categorized under China Premium Database’s Price – Table CN.PA: Price Monitoring Center, NDRC: Market and Contract Price: Coal.

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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 footprin

Get comprehensive insights into the Coal market, with a focused analysis of the Coal price trend across Asia, Europe, North America, Latin America, and the Middle East Africa.

Coking Coal Market Outlook 2032

The global coking coal market size was USD 70 Million in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 136.5 Million by 2032, expanding at a CAGR of 7.7% during 2024–2032. The market growth is attributed to the rising demand for coking coal in the steel and automotive industry.



The increasing demand for steel production worldwide is driving the growth of the coking coal market. Coking coal, also known as metallurgical coal, plays a pivotal role in steel manufacturing, making it a crucial commodity in the industrial sector. The growing infrastructural developments, coupled with the rising automotive industry, are further propelling the market.

The latest trends in the market indicate a shift towards sustainable and efficient mining practices, as environmental concerns become more prominent. Technological advancements are also paving the way for improved extraction and processing methods, presenting significant opportunities for market players.

Impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on Coking Coal Market

Artificial Intelligence has a positive impact on the coking coal market, by enhancing efficiency, reducing costs, and improving safety measures. AI's predictive analytics capabilities enable companies to forecast demand and supply trends accurately, thereby optimizing production and reducing waste.



AI-powered automation in mining operations reduces labor costs and minimizes human errors. It also improves safety by detecting potential hazards and preventing accidents. In terms of environmental impact, AI helps in monitoring and reducing carbon emissions, contributing to sustainable practices in the coking coal industry.

Coking Coal Market Dynamics

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According to Cognitive Market Research, the global Coking Coal market size is USD XX million in 2024 and will expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.00%from 2024 to 2031.

North America held the major market of more than 40% of the global revenue with a market size of USD XX million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.2% from 2024 to 2031.
Europe accounted for a share of over 30% of the global market size of USD XX million.
Asia Pacific held the market of around 23% of the global revenue with a market size of USD XX million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.0% from 2024 to 2031.
Latin America market of more than 5% of the global revenue with a market size of USD XX million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.4% from 2024 to 2031.
Middle East and Africa held the major market ofaround 2% of the global revenue with a market size of USD XX million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.7% from 2024 to 2031.
The Steel Production held the highest Coking Coal market revenue share in 2024.

Key Drivers of Coking Coal Market

Growing Demand from Steel Industry to Increase the Demand Globally: The steel industry is a major consumer of coking coal, using it as a primary raw material in the production of steel. As the global economy continues to recover from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, the demand for steel is expected to rise, driven by infrastructure development, construction projects, and the automotive sector. This increasing demand for steel is expected to boost the demand for coking coal, as it is an essential component in the steelmaking process. Additionally, the shift towards electric arc furnaces (EAFs) in steel production, which also require coking coal, is expected to further drive the demand for coking coal in the coming years.

Growing Urbanization and Industrialization to Propel Market Growth: Rapid urbanization and industrialization in emerging economies such as China, India, and Brazil are driving the demand for steel and, consequently, coking coal. As these countries continue to invest in infrastructure development, the demand for steel for construction, transportation, and manufacturing purposes is expected to increase. This trend is particularly pronounced in the construction of skyscrapers, bridges, and other infrastructure projects that require large quantities of steel. The growing middle class in these countries is also driving demand for consumer goods, automobiles, and appliances, all of which require steel, thus boosting the demand for coking coal.

Restraint Factors of Coking Coal Market

Environmental Concerns and Regulations to Limit the Sales: One of the key restraints in the coking coal market is the increasing environmental concerns associated with coal mining and steel production. The mining and burning of coal releases greenhouse gases and other pollutants into the atmosphere, contributing to air and water pollution and climate change. In response to these concerns, governments around the world are implementing stricter environmental regulations and emissions standards, which could increase the cost of coal production and limit its use in steelmaking. Additionally, the growing awareness of environmental issues among consumers and investors has led to a shift towards cleaner and more sustainable energy sources, potentially reducing the demand for coking coal in the long run.

Trends of Coking Coal Market

Ongoing Demand from Steel Production in Light of Infrastructure Expansion: Coking coal is an essential component in blast furnace steel production, and its demand remains robust, especially in developing nations engaged in extensive infrastructure and industrial projects. Countries such as India, China, and those in Southeast Asia are propelling the demand for steel in construction, transportation, and urban development, which consequently drives consistent consumption of metallurgical (coking) coal. In spite of worldwide decarbonization initiatives, conventional steelmaking reliant on coking coal is anticipated to retain a significant share in the near to mid-term.

Growing Emphasis on Low-Emission Steelmaking Technologies: Environmental regulations and the imperative to lower carbon emissions are encouraging the steel sector to investigate low-emission alternatives, including...

China Market Price: Coking Coal: 10th Grade: Price at Railway Station data was reported at 1,266.000 RMB/Ton in Feb 2019. This stayed constant from the previous number of 1,266.000 RMB/Ton for Jan 2019. China Market Price: Coking Coal: 10th Grade: Price at Railway Station data is updated monthly, averaging 1,077.000 RMB/Ton from Apr 2014 (Median) to Feb 2019, with 59 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 1,266.000 RMB/Ton in Feb 2019 and a record low of 738.000 RMB/Ton in Dec 2018. China Market Price: Coking Coal: 10th Grade: Price at Railway Station data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Price Monitoring Center, NDRC. The data is categorized under China Premium Database’s Price – Table CN.PA: Price Monitoring Center, NDRC: Market and Contract Price: Coal.

The coal market size is predicted to rise from $767.94 billion in 2024 to $1,431.38 billion by 2035, growing at a CAGR of 5.82% from 2024 to 2035.

Platts met coal prices are benchmark prices for metallurgical (met) coal, also known as coking coal, which is a key ingredient in the steelmaking process. Platts, a leading provider of energy and commodities information, publishes daily price assessments for various types and grades of met coal. They are widely regarded as a reliable and objective source of price information in the coal industry, used for price negotiations, risk management, and market analysis.

Coal prices per MT can vary depending on factors such as quality, market demand, transportation costs, and geopolitical factors. Learn about the factors affecting coal price and recent trends in the global coal market.

Metallurgical Coal Market Outlook

The global metallurgical coal market size was valued at approximately $210 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow to $340 billion by 2032, exhibiting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of around 5.5% over the forecast period. This significant growth factor is driven by the increasing demand for steel across various industries, particularly in developing economies, which is a critical factor propelling market expansion. The burgeoning infrastructure development projects and the rising automotive production are key contributors to this growth trajectory.

One of the primary growth factors of the metallurgical coal market is the escalating demand for steel production. Steel is an essential material used in construction, automotive, and manufacturing industries. With global urbanization and industrialization trends, particularly in emerging economies in the Asia Pacific region, the need for steel has surged, thereby increasing the demand for metallurgical coal. Moreover, technological advancements in steel production processes, which require high-quality coke derived from metallurgical coal, are further bolstering market growth.

Another critical growth driver is the robust expansion of the automotive industry. Automobiles require a substantial amount of steel for manufacturing, and as the global population continues to grow, so does the demand for vehicles. The shift towards electric vehicles (EVs) also plays a role, as EV production involves a considerable quantity of high-strength steel. This trend is expected to sustain the demand for metallurgical coal, as steel producers ramp up their production capacities to meet the automotive sector's needs.

Furthermore, the push towards infrastructure development across the globe is significantly contributing to the market's expansion. Governments in various regions are investing heavily in infrastructure projects, such as bridges, railways, and buildings, which necessitate large quantities of steel. For instance, China's Belt and Road Initiative and India's Smart Cities Mission are prime examples of large-scale infrastructure projects driving the demand for metallurgical coal. These projects not only stimulate immediate demand but also ensure long-term market stability.

The regional outlook indicates that Asia Pacific remains the dominant market for metallurgical coal, accounting for the largest share. This dominance is due to the presence of major steel-producing countries like China, India, and Japan, which are continually expanding their steel production capacities. North America and Europe also hold significant market shares, driven by technological advancements and infrastructure renewal projects. Meanwhile, Latin America and the Middle East & Africa are showing promising growth potential owing to their emerging steel industries and increasing industrial activities.

Thermal Coal, distinct from metallurgical coal, plays a crucial role in global energy production. It is primarily used for electricity generation in power plants, where it is burned to produce steam that drives turbines. Despite the global shift towards renewable energy sources, thermal coal remains a significant energy source, particularly in developing countries where infrastructure for alternative energy is still evolving. The demand for thermal coal is influenced by factors such as energy policies, economic growth, and technological advancements in power generation. As countries strive to balance energy needs with environmental concerns, the role of thermal coal in the energy mix continues to be a topic of debate and strategic planning.

Grade Analysis

The metallurgical coal market is segmented by grade into Hard Coking Coal, Semi-Hard Coking Coal, Semi-Soft Coking Coal, and Pulverized Coal Injection (PCI). Hard Coking Coal (HCC) is the most sought-after grade due to its superior coking properties, which are essential for producing high-quality coke used in steel production. HCC commands a premium price in the market, and its demand is primarily driven by the steel industry's need for high-strength, durable steel products. The limited availability of high-quality reserves and the complexities involved in mining further elevate its market value.

Semi-Hard Coking Coal (SHCC) and Se

It is forecast that the average price for hard coking coal in 2026 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.

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 China Coal Market was valued at USD 94.65 Million in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 106.14 Million by 2032, with an expected CAGR of 1.65% during the forecast period. The coal market in China serves as a fundamental component of the nation's energy framework, significantly contributing to its extensive industrial infrastructure and economic advancement. As the leading global consumer and producer of coal, China depends substantially on this fossil fuel for electricity production, heating, and a variety of industrial applications. The market is marked by widespread domestic coal extraction activities and a sophisticated supply chain that facilitates the transportation of coal from mines to power generation facilities and industrial sites throughout the expansive nation. Recent trends in the Chinese coal market indicate a notable transition towards reconciling energy requirements with environmental considerations. Although coal remains a primary energy source, China has made considerable progress in tackling air quality challenges and curbing greenhouse gas emissions. The government is channeling investments into cleaner coal technologies, including high-efficiency, low-emission (HELE) power plants, while also advocating for the utilization of coal with reduced sulfur content. Furthermore, there is an increasing focus on the integration of renewable energy sources and enhancing energy efficiency, aligning with China's overarching objective of achieving carbon neutrality by 2060. The coal sector is confronted with obstacles such as variations in global coal prices, stringent environmental regulations, and the necessity for energy diversification. In the future, China's coal industry will need to adeptly manage these challenges while fulfilling the nation's energy requirements and environmental aspirations. Recent developments include: November 2022: The government of China extended long-term thermal coal supply contracts to all coal mines for 2023 and pushed power utilities to source more of their needs through such contracts to secure market supply and stabilize prices. The long-term contract will include all coal mining companies and coal-fired electricity and heating plants., February 2022: The eastern Chinese coastal province of Zhejiang approved the construction of a USD 840 million coal-fired power station. According to the Zhejiang Energy Group, the Phase 2 Project of the Liuheng Power Plant will help balance the province's energy supply and demand.. Key drivers for this market are: Increasing Electricity Demand, Rising Investments in the Coal Industry. Potential restraints include: Increasing Installation of Renewable Energy Sources. Notable trends are: The Power Generation Segment Expected to Dominate the Market.

Discover why China's coal market is under pressure, with prices dropping due to oversupply and how this impacts global coal consumption.

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...

The global thermal coal market is a mature but dynamic industry experiencing a complex interplay of factors influencing its growth trajectory. While facing headwinds from environmental concerns and the global push towards renewable energy sources, the market continues to demonstrate resilience, driven primarily by persistent demand from developing economies in Asia, particularly China and India, for electricity generation. The market size in 2025 is estimated at $150 billion, with a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 2% projected from 2025 to 2033. This moderate growth reflects a balance between ongoing reliance on coal for baseload power and increasing efforts to transition to cleaner energy sources. The ongoing energy crisis and geopolitical instability have, however, provided temporary support to coal prices, pushing up market values and potentially extending its lifecycle beyond initial projections. This has resulted in increased investments in new mining capacities, especially in regions with substantial coal reserves and less stringent environmental regulations.
The market segmentation reveals key trends. The power generation segment remains the dominant application, consuming the vast majority of thermal coal. Lignite and long-flame coal are the leading coal types due to their widespread availability and suitability for power plants. However, the emergence of stricter environmental regulations and carbon emission reduction targets is gradually shifting the industry landscape. This includes a greater focus on improving coal combustion technologies to reduce emissions, as well as exploration of carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) methodologies. Key players in the market are diversifying their portfolios and increasingly focusing on sustainable practices to mitigate environmental concerns and ensure long-term market viability. The geographical distribution of the market shows strong concentration in Asia, with North America and Europe representing smaller, but still significant, market segments.