Understand the factors affecting the current coal price in the international market, including supply and demand dynamics, government policies, and environmental regulations. Learn about the variations in price for thermal and metallurgical coal and the impact of regional dynamics and environmental policies on coal prices.

Coal fell to 108.35 USD/T on December 1, 2025, down 1.86% from the previous day. Over the past month, Coal's price has fallen 1.14%, and is down 20.33% 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 December of 2025.

The global coal price index reached 145.08 index points in September 2025. This was a decrease compared to the previous month, while the overall fuel energy price index decreased. 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 curtail 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.

Monthly and long-term coking coal price data (US$/mt): historical series and analyst forecasts curated by FocusEconomics.

View monthly updates and historical trends for Australia Coal Price. Source: World Bank. Track economic data with YCharts analytics.

Learn about the dynamic nature of international coal prices and the factors influencing them. Stay updated with the current international coal prices, including the Newcastle Index, API2 Rotterdam Coal Futures, RB Index, and ARA Index. Understand how supply and demand, political developments, environmental regulations, currency exchange rates, and economic conditions impact coal prices. Find reputable sources for accurate and up-to-date information on live international coal prices.

Coking Coal rose to 201.25 USD/T on November 10, 2025, up 0.12% from the previous day. Over the past month, Coking Coal's price has risen 3.60%, but it is still 4.39% lower than a year ago, according to trading on a contract for difference (CFD) that tracks the benchmark market for this commodity. This dataset includes a chart with historical data for Coking Coal.

The rate of coal in the international market is influenced by factors such as global demand and supply, production costs, transportation costs, government policies, and environmental regulations. This article discusses how these factors affect the rate of coal and provides an overview of the current state of the international coal market.

Monthly and long-term thermal coal price data (US$/mt): historical series and analyst forecasts curated by FocusEconomics.

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.

Learn about the factors influencing the price of coking coal, including global demand, supply, trade policies, geopolitical tensions, and economic growth. Understand how fluctuations in the global steel industry and regional markets impact coking coal prices. Explore the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and discover the future factors that will influence coking coal prices.

First, domestic prices were measured based on the Polish Power Coal Market Index for sales to professional and industrial energy (PSCM1). Since 2017, coal prices in Poland have been steadily increasing, reaching the highest price of ****** zloty/metric ton in the third quarter of 2023. Global coal prices were measured by the ARA index (based on the prices of futures contracts in the ports of Amsterdam-Rotterdam-Antwerp). The ARA index has fallen since the third quarter of 2018, closing the second quarter of 2020 at *** zloty/metric tons. In the fourth quarter of 2024, coal prices were lower on the global market than on the Polish market (considering the current USD/PLN exchange rate), reaching over *** zloty per metric ton.

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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

Learn about the factors that influence met coal prices, including supply and demand dynamics, geopolitical factors, and the global energy transition. Discover why met coal is essential for steel production and how price negotiations occur in the industry.

Learn about the factors affecting coal prices, including type, quality, transportation costs, and global demand. Find out why coal prices can be volatile and how to access current market data.

The global coal mining industry's market value has fluctuated greatly since 2010. The market value of coal mining during this period peaked in 2011 at ************* U.S. dollars, but declined in the following years, dropping to *********** U.S. dollars by 2020. In 2023, the market value of coal mining amounted to approximately ************* U.S. dollars.

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 coal and processed coal market continues to be a cornerstone of the world's energy and industrial sectors, valued at USD 551.648 billion in 2021. Despite a global push towards renewable energy, the market is projected to grow, reaching USD 863.038 billion by 2033, expanding at a CAGR of 3.8%. This growth is primarily fueled by sustained demand from emerging economies for power generation and industrial applications like steel and cement manufacturing. However, the market faces significant headwinds from stringent environmental regulations, carbon pricing mechanisms, and increasing competition from cheaper and cleaner energy alternatives. Regional dynamics vary significantly, with the Asia Pacific region emerging as the fastest-growing market, while North America and Europe experience more moderate growth, navigating a complex transition towards lower-carbon energy systems. The industry's future trajectory will be shaped by investments in clean coal technologies and the evolving energy policies of major consumer nations.

Key strategic insights from our comprehensive analysis reveal:

The Asia-Pacific region is the epicentre of market growth, driven by rapid industrialization and energy demand in countries like China and India. The region exhibits the highest CAGR of 5.065%, solidifying its dominant role in global consumption.
While North America remains the largest regional market by value, its growth is comparatively slower (3.463% CAGR). This indicates a mature market grappling with environmental policies and a gradual shift towards natural gas and renewables.
The market is characterized by a stark divergence in regional growth patterns. Developing regions like Asia-Pacific and parts of Europe show robust growth, whereas South America and Africa exhibit much slower expansion, reflecting different stages of economic development and energy infrastructure.

Global Market Overview & Dynamics of Coal and Processed Coal Market Analysis

The global coal and processed coal market remains a critical component of the international energy mix, primarily driven by its application in electricity generation and as a key raw material in steel and cement production. The market is currently navigating a period of transition, influenced by two opposing forces: the unyielding energy and industrial demand from developing nations and the intensifying global pressure to decarbonize. While the market is forecast to grow steadily at a 3.8% CAGR, its long-term sustainability is contingent on the adoption of cleaner technologies and the energy policy choices made by key industrial nations. The highest growth is concentrated in the Asia Pacific, while mature markets in North America and Europe are focusing on efficiency and emission reduction.

Global Coal and Processed Coal Market Drivers

Rising Industrial and Power Demand in Emerging Economies: Rapid industrialization and urbanization in countries like India and China fuel substantial demand for coal in power plants, steel mills, and cement factories, underpinning market growth.
Energy Security and Affordability: Coal remains a cost-effective and domestically abundant energy source for many nations, providing a reliable baseload power that ensures energy security and stability, especially compared to the intermittency of some renewables.
Lack of Viable Large-Scale Alternatives: For heavy industries such as steel and cement manufacturing, coal (specifically coking coal) remains an essential and often unsubstitutable input, ensuring its continued demand regardless of shifts in the power sector.

Global Coal and Processed Coal Market Trends

Adoption of Clean Coal Technologies (CCT): Growing environmental concerns are pushing investment in technologies like High-Efficiency, Low-Emissions (HELE) power plants and Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS) to mitigate the environmental impact of coal combustion.
Shift Towards Processed and Higher-Grade Coal: There is an increasing trend towards using processed coal (e.g., washed or beneficiated coal) and higher-grade varieties to improve combustion efficiency, reduce ash content, and lower emissions per unit of energy produced.
Market Consolidation and Strategic Divestment: Major mining companies are strategically consolidating assets, focusing on high-quality reserves, and in some cases, divesting from thermal coal to focus on metallurgical coal or other minerals in response to investor ...

Discover the latest trends and insights into the global coal trading market. Our comprehensive analysis covers market size, CAGR, key drivers, restraints, and regional breakdowns, with projections to 2033. Explore the impact of renewable energy on the coal industry and the strategies of major players like Arch Coal and Glencore.

South African coal prices in , October, 2025 For that commodity indicator, we provide data from January 1984 to October 2025. The average value during that period was 61.18 USD per metric ton with a minimum of 21.25 USD per metric ton in August 2002 and a maximum of 302 USD per metric ton in April 2022. | TheGlobalEconomy.com