Coal decreased 28.50 USD/MT or 22.75% since the beginning of 2025, 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 March of 2025.

It is forecast that the average price for hard coking coal in 2026 will be 21.80 nominal U.S. dollars per metric ton. Meanwhile, the average price for semi-soft coking coal is forecast to be 138.20 nominal U.S. dollars per metric ton that year.

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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 market is driven by the increasing demand for steel and the rise in several smart city projects, leading to an increase in consumption of coal. However, the market faces challenges such as volatility in metallurgical coal prices due to supply and demand imbalances. To mitigate this, coal blending and coal characterization through techniques like coal washing, coal property analysis using vitrinite reflectance and petrography, and coal reserve exploration are crucial.
Coal washing enhances coal quality by removing impurities, while coal characterization provides insights into coal's caking index, thermal maturity, and carbonization properties. Fossil carbon's role in the coal industry is significant as it is a critical feedstock in steel manufacturing and carbonization processes. The demand-supply gap in the market necessitates efficient coal production and utilization strategies.

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

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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 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


End-User

  Construction
  Transportation
  Health Care
  Agriculture
  Others


Geography

  APAC

    China
    India
    Japan


  North America

    Canada
    US


  Europe

    Germany
    UK
    France


  Middle East and Africa

    UAE


  South America

    Brazil

By Application Insights

The steel making segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period. Metallurgical coal plays a crucial role in the steel industry, serving as the primary feedstock for coke production in steelmaking processes. The BF-BOF (Basic Oxygen Furnace-Blast Furnace) and EAF (Electric Arc Furnace) routes are the two primary methods for producing steel. In the BF-BOF process, large quantities of metallurgical coal are required to produce carbon-rich coke, which is essential for reduction of iron ore and the production of pig iron. In contrast, the EAF process uses scrap metal and requires lower volumes of metallurgical coal for anaerobic heating. While both methods contribute to steel production, the BF-BOF process was the dominant method used in 2020.

Furthermore, the consumption of steel is often used as an economic development indicator, and this growth in steel production highlights the ongoing economic recovery. The various types of metallurgical coal, including anthracite, bituminous coal, sub-bituminous coal, and lignite, are utilized based on their carbon content and caking ability in the steelmaking process.

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The steel making segment was valued at USD 160.30 billion in 2019 and showed a gradual increase during the forecast period.

Regional Analysis

APAC is estimated to contribute 85% to the growth of the global market during the forecast period. Technavio's analysts have elaborately explained the regional market trends and drivers that shape the market during the forecast period.

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The market in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region is projected to expand at a faster pace compared to other regions, driven by the significant demand from the steel industry. Factors such as industrialization and infrastructure growth in developing countries like China and India are fueling the demand for steel, which relies on metallurgical coal as a primary raw material for its production. With the rapid urbanization of cities in Asia, the need for steel is high for infrastructure development. Metallurgical coal, with its high carbon content, is essential for producing carbon-rich coke required for coking processes in steelmaking. In 2023, China, Australia, Indonesia, and India were the leading contributors to the growth of the market in APAC.

Furthermore, the demand for this coal type is particularly high in countries like China, which is the world's largest consumer and importer of metallurgical coal. The primary use of these in APAC is for electricity generation and household heating, as well as anaerobic heating and the production of pig iron from iron ore. The caking ability of metallurgical coal is crucial for its use in the steel industry, ensuring the successful production of high-quality iron and steel products.

Market Dynamics

Metallurgical coal, also known as coking coal, plays a vital role in the steelmak

Explore the critical factors impacting metallurgical coal prices, including supply chain disruptions, global demand, market speculation, and regulatory changes. Learn how these elements influence steel production costs and the volatility observed in the coal market.

In the third quarter of 2024 (Q3 2024), the Australian coking coal price was 211 U.S. dollars per metric ton, down from 243 U.S. dollars per metric ton in the previous quarter. Coking coal, also known as metallurgical coal, is a low-ash, low-sulfur, low-phosphorus coal that is used to produce coke, which is the main source of carbon used to make steel.

Explore the dynamic and volatile hard coking coal price trends influenced by global demand, supply chain disruptions, geopolitical tensions, and the shift towards sustainable energy. Understand the impact of these factors on steel production costs and market strategies.

The global coal price index reached 154 index points in February 2025. This was a decrease compared to the previous month, which also reflected a fall 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, South Korea, and Germany are among the leading coal importers, as these countries rely heavily on coal for electricity and heat generation.

Explore the dynamics of coking coal prices through comprehensive price charts, essential for stakeholders in the steel industry. Understand historical trends, volatility factors, and market analysis to make informed investment and trading decisions. Learn how geopolitical events, supply disruptions, and global demand impact these crucial commodities.

Graph and download economic data for Export Price Index (End Use): Metallurgical Grade Coal (IQ11010) from Jan 2025 to Feb 2025 about grades, coal, end use, exports, price index, indexes, price, and USA.

The article discusses the importance of the coking coal price index in tracking and analyzing price trends of coking coal in the global market. It explains how the index takes into account various factors and provides a standardized measure of the average price of coking coal. Market participants can use the index to monitor price movements, make informed decisions, and manage their price risk. The article also mentions the commonly used Platts Coking Coal Index (PCCI) and other available indices from major

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.

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.

Impact of Covid-19 on the Coking Coal Market

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the coking coal market, leading to disruptions in production, supply chains, and demand. The lockdowns and restrictions imposed to curb the spread of the virus resulted in a slowdown of economic activity, leading to a decrease in demand for steel and, consequently, coking coal. Many steel mills around the world either shut down or operated at reduced capacity, leading to a decline in coking coal consumption.

However, despite these challenges, the coking coal market showed resilience, with prices remaining relatively stable due to the gradual recovery of the global economy and the resumption of steel production. Governments around the world implemented stimulus packages to support economic recovery, which boosted infrastructure projects and construction activities, leading to an increase in ...

On March 21, 2025, the U.S. Central Appalachian coal price stood at 78 U.S. dollars per short ton. Figures stayed below 80 U.S. dollars for most of 2024 and all of 2025, except for late June and late September 2024. 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.

Newcastle thermal coal had an average price forecast of 130.80 nominal U.S. dollars per metric ton for 2024, as of June and July 2024. During the period in consideration, the forecast presents a trend of continuous decrease. By the end of 2028, Newcastle thermal coal price is expected to drop to 102.80 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.

According to Cognitive Market Research, the global Metallurgical Coal Market size will be USD 15412.5 million in 2024. It will expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.50% from 2024 to 2031.

North America held the major market share for more than 40% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 6165.00 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 1.7% from 2024 to 2031.
Europe accounted for a market share of over 30% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 4623.75 million.
Asia Pacific held a market share of around 23% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 3544.88 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.5% from 2024 to 2031.
Latin America had a market share of more than 5% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 770.63 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 2.9% from 2024 to 2031.
Middle East and Africa had a market share of around 2% of the global revenue and was estimated at a market size of USD 308.25 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.2% from 2024 to 2031.
The hard cooking coal category is the fastest growing segment of the Metallurgical Coal industry

Market Dynamics of Metallurgical Coal Market

Key Drivers for Metallurgical Coal Market

Infrastructural advancement to Boost Market Growth

Global demand for metallurgical coal is mostly driven by the expansion of infrastructure. Steel is a vital building element used in construction projects, and its demand is growing as nations try to update and extend their infrastructure networks. Because it's used to make coke, an essential fuel and reducing agent in blast furnaces, metallurgical coal plays a pivotal role in the steelmaking process. This coke, made from metallurgical coal, makes it easier to separate iron from iron ore and turn it into steel. Thus, there is a significant demand for metallurgical coal as a result of strong infrastructure development projects, which include building roads, bridges, trains, airports, and urban infrastructure. Furthermore, in order to comply with strict performance requirements and safety laws, infrastructure development projects frequently need premium steel with certain metallurgical qualities. Hard coking coals (HCC), in particular, are crucial for making the premium coke required to produce steel with exceptional strength, durability, and resistance to corrosion.

Usage of 3D mine visualizers to Drive Market Growth

Coal mining companies employ 3D mine visualizers to obtain a real-time digital representation of a mine. The operator receives a three-dimensional version of the mine plan created by a three-dimensional mine visualizer. A web-based interface allows any connected device to get information about the model. Operators may examine and assess past data to improve productivity and identify best practices thanks to its comprehensive 3D recording and replay capabilities. 3D mine visualizers are quite helpful for large-scale mining sites. Planning operations, identifying problem areas, and tracking mine development over time can all be done with its help. High-resolution 3D spatial data can be used by users to trace operations from source to port or facility through the use of 3D visualisation.

Restraint Factor for the Metallurgical Coal Market

Disruptions to the Supply Chain, will Limit Market Growth

The production, distribution, and stability of the global metallurgical coal market are all negatively impacted by supply chain disruptions. The supply chain for metallurgical coal can be affected by a number of things, such as traffic jams, labor disputes, natural disasters, geopolitical unrest, and regulatory changes. The flow of metallurgical coal from mines to steel mills and export ports can be hampered by disruptions in the transportation infrastructure, such as port closures, railroad blockades, or road closures, which can cause delays and raise logistics costs. Furthermore, trade disputes or geopolitical tensions between nations may lead to export limits, taxes, or trade barriers that alter market dynamics and impede the flow of metallurgical coal across international borders.

Impact of Covid-19 on the Metallurgical Coal Market

Covid-19 had a significant impact on the Metallurgical Coal Market. Globally, COVID-19 has hindered the expansion of all industries. As lockdown has been imposed w...

Australia BHP: Average Realized Price: Coal: Metallurgical Coal data was reported at 177.220 USD/Tonne in Jun 2018. This records an increase from the previous number of 164.220 USD/Tonne for Dec 2017. Australia BHP: Average Realized Price: Coal: Metallurgical Coal data is updated semiannually, averaging 164.220 USD/Tonne from Jun 2017 (Median) to Jun 2018, with 3 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 177.220 USD/Tonne in Jun 2018 and a record low of 163.300 USD/Tonne in Jun 2017. Australia BHP: Average Realized Price: Coal: Metallurgical Coal data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by BHP Billiton Group. The data is categorized under World Trend Plus’s Top Company: Metal and Mining: Asia Excluding China – Table WB.AT003: BHP Billiton Group (BHP): Operational Data.

API2 Rotterdam coal futures amounted to 100 U.S. dollars per 1,000 metric tons on March 3, 2025 for contracts with delivery in March 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.

A met coal index is a measurement tool used in the coal industry to track the price movements of metallurgical coal. It provides transparency, standardization, and valuable market information to participants, enabling them to make informed decisions in the met coal market.

China Settlement Price: Dalian Commodity Exchange: Coking Coal: 4th Month data was reported at 1,081.500 RMB/Ton in 14 Mar 2025. This records a decrease from the previous number of 1,084.000 RMB/Ton for 13 Mar 2025. China Settlement Price: Dalian Commodity Exchange: Coking Coal: 4th Month data is updated daily, averaging 1,256.000 RMB/Ton from Mar 2013 (Median) to 14 Mar 2025, with 2910 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.

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 727.06 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 222 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 461 zloty per metric ton.