Coal fell to 104.85 USD/T on June 6, 2025, down 0.14% from the previous day. Over the past month, Coal's price has risen 6.18%, but it is still 21.17% 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 June 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.

Get the latest insights on price movement and trend analysis of Coking Coal in different regions across the world (Asia, Europe, North America, Latin America, and the Middle East & Africa).

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.

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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 experiencing significant growth driven by the increasing demand for steel, a primary consumer of metallurgical coal. This trend is particularly prominent in regions with robust industrial sectors, such as Asia Pacific. Another key driver is the rise of smart city projects, which require substantial amounts of steel and consequently, metallurgical coal. However, the market is not without challenges. 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 stay abreast of price fluctuations and 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 reduction, and cost reduction through mining technology advancements and automation. Additionally, environmental degradation and air quality concerns have led to st

Learn about the factors that influence live coking coal prices, including supply and demand, geopolitical events, and global economic conditions. Discover how availability, demand from the steel industry, geopolitical events, and global economic conditions impact the price of coking coal. Also, find out about the exchanges and indices that provide live prices for coking coal.

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 ...

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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China Settlement Price: Dalian Commodity Exchange: Coking Coal: 4th Month data was reported at 890.000 RMB/Ton in 08 May 2025. This records a decrease from the previous number of 905.000 RMB/Ton for 07 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 08 May 2025, with 2945 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.

South Korea Coking Coal data was reported at 192.000 USD/Ton in 15 May 2025. This stayed constant from the previous number of 192.000 USD/Ton for 14 May 2025. South Korea Coking Coal data is updated daily, averaging 268.000 USD/Ton from Jul 2021 (Median) to 15 May 2025, with 973 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 662.750 USD/Ton in 15 Mar 2022 and a record low of 172.000 USD/Ton in 02 Apr 2025. South Korea Coking Coal data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy. The data is categorized under Global Database’s South Korea – Table KR.P: Raw Material Prices.

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

The global coal price index reached 140.46 index points in April 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.

China Market Price: Coking Coal: 8th Grade: Price at Mines data was reported at 950.000 RMB/Ton in Feb 2019. This stayed constant from the previous number of 950.000 RMB/Ton for Jan 2019. China Market Price: Coking Coal: 8th Grade: Price at Mines data is updated monthly, averaging 760.000 RMB/Ton from Apr 2014 (Median) to Feb 2019, with 59 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 950.000 RMB/Ton in Feb 2019 and a record low of 573.000 RMB/Ton in Apr 2016. China Market Price: Coking Coal: 8th Grade: 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.

Get the latest insights on price movement and trend analysis of Met Coke in different regions across the world (Asia, Europe, North America, Latin America, and the Middle East & Africa).

The global coking coal market is experiencing robust growth, driven by increasing steel production, particularly in developing economies like India and China. The market, valued at approximately $100 billion in 2025, is projected to exhibit a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 5% from 2025 to 2033, reaching an estimated value exceeding $140 billion by 2033. This growth is fueled by several key factors. The rising global infrastructure development, particularly in transportation and construction, significantly boosts demand for steel, thereby increasing the need for coking coal as a crucial component in steelmaking. Furthermore, the expanding chemical and power industries contribute to the market's upward trajectory. However, environmental concerns surrounding coal mining and its impact on climate change pose a significant restraint on market expansion. Stringent environmental regulations and the increasing adoption of sustainable alternatives are expected to temper growth in the long term. Market segmentation reveals a strong dominance of Hard Coking Coals (HCC) due to their superior metallurgical properties. Geographically, Asia Pacific, especially China and India, holds a considerable market share, driven by their massive steel production capacity. Competition among major players like Coal India Limited, China Shenhua Energy Company, and Peabody Energy, is intense, with companies focusing on optimizing production efficiency, cost reduction, and sustainable mining practices. The diverse applications of coking coal across metallurgy, power generation, and the chemical industry ensure sustained market demand. However, fluctuations in global steel prices and geopolitical events can influence market dynamics significantly. The transition towards more sustainable energy sources and steel production methods, including the use of recycled steel and alternative ironmaking technologies, presents both opportunities and challenges for the coking coal industry. Companies are strategically investing in research and development to improve the efficiency and sustainability of coking coal production while exploring diversification into related areas. The medium and long-term outlook for the coking coal market remains positive, contingent upon managing environmental concerns and adapting to evolving technological advancements and shifting global economic conditions. Growth will be influenced by the ongoing balance between the increasing demand for steel and the implementation of stricter environmental regulations.

In Q1 2025, the coal market in the USA saw varying price trends due to supply constraints, demand shifts, and weather conditions. January experienced a significant 4.4% price increase driven by a polar vortex that disrupted mining operations and reduced production. This weather event, coupled with rising demand from data centres and AI-driven industries, tightened coal supply, pushing prices higher. Speculation about potential regulatory rollbacks under the incoming administration further fuelled price hikes, as industries anticipated changes in energy policies.

India Coal: Representative Price: Non-Coking: Grade: G13 data was reported at 1,626.000 INR/Ton in Mar 2025. This records a decrease from the previous number of 1,671.000 INR/Ton for Feb 2025. India Coal: Representative Price: Non-Coking: Grade: G13 data is updated monthly, averaging 1,710.000 INR/Ton from Mar 2020 (Median) to Mar 2025, with 61 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 2,960.000 INR/Ton in May 2022 and a record low of 1,180.000 INR/Ton in Jul 2020. India Coal: Representative Price: Non-Coking: Grade: G13 data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Ministry of Coal. The data is categorized under India Premium Database’s Energy Sector – Table IN.RBT002: Coal: Representative Price.

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

India Coal: Representative Price: Non-Coking: Grade: G15 data was reported at 1,124.000 INR/Ton in Mar 2025. This stayed constant from the previous number of 1,124.000 INR/Ton for Feb 2025. India Coal: Representative Price: Non-Coking: Grade: G15 data is updated monthly, averaging 1,124.000 INR/Ton from Mar 2020 (Median) to Mar 2025, with 61 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 2,519.000 INR/Ton in Jun 2022 and a record low of 760.000 INR/Ton in Jul 2020. India Coal: Representative Price: Non-Coking: Grade: G15 data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Ministry of Coal. The data is categorized under India Premium Database’s Energy Sector – Table IN.RBT002: Coal: Representative Price.

Soft coking coal is a type of coal used in steel-making. This article discusses the factors that influence the price of soft coking coal, including supply and demand dynamics, market speculation, production costs, and transportation costs. It also highlights the impact of the steel industry, supply disruptions, market speculation, production costs, and global economic conditions on the price of soft coking coal. Market participants closely monitor these factors to make informed decisions.