Coal rose to 107.25 USD/T on June 23, 2025, up 0.61% from the previous day. Over the past month, Coal's price has risen 6.82%, but it is still 18.69% 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.

On June 13, 2025, the U.S. Central Appalachian coal price stood at 79 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.

The price for one metric ton of Australian thermal coal amounted to an average of ****** U.S. dollars in 2024. This was a notable decrease compared to 2022, when the price amounted to over *** U.S. dollars. Thermal coal, also known as steam coal, is used to generate electricity and its properties include a high moisture and low energy content. It is differentiated from coking coal, or metallurgical coal, which is largely used for steel production. Thermal coal/steam coal prices tend to be lower than coking coal prices, as coking coal requires fewer impurities. Coal consumption: the leading consuming countries Between 2000 and 2023, global coal consumption increased by some ***** exajoules, amounting to roughly *** exajoules as of 2023. Today, China and India are the two leading coal consumers worldwide, at ***** and ***** exajoules, respectively. The two most populous countries on the planet thus accounted for over ********** of total coal consumption in 2023. The U.S. is a leading coal consumer despite the declining U.S. coal mining industry The United States was ranked ***** among the leading coal consuming nations in 2023, however, it has decreased its coal consumption for electricity generation considerably since 2007. This is largely the result of electric utilities switching to cheaper means of energy production such as natural gas and renewables, as well as growing concerns over greenhouse gas emissions. The U.S. coal mining industry has also been on the decline in recent years.

Learn about the factors that influence thermal coal prices and how they fluctuate in response to changes in demand, government regulations, and environmental concerns. Discover the impact of renewable energy, globalization, and geopolitical factors on the pricing of thermal coal. Find out where to access real-time market reports and understand how location and coal specifications affect pricing. Stay informed with reliable and up-to-date information on the latest thermal coal prices.

Colombia Export Price: Coal: Thermal Coal data was reported at 52.030 USD/Ton in 2016. This records a decrease from the previous number of 58.000 USD/Ton for 2015. Colombia Export Price: Coal: Thermal Coal data is updated yearly, averaging 37.840 USD/Ton from Dec 1984 (Median) to 2016, with 33 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 96.770 USD/Ton in 2011 and a record low of 25.290 USD/Ton in 1989. Colombia Export Price: Coal: Thermal Coal data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Colombian Mining Information System. The data is categorized under Global Database’s Colombia – Table CO.RB029: Coal Price.

Learn about the factors that determine international thermal coal prices, including supply and demand dynamics, global economic conditions, regional market trends, and geopolitical factors. Understand how these prices impact coal mining companies, power generation companies, and the cost of electricity for consumers.

Newcastle thermal coal had an average price forecast of ****** 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 ****** 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.

Seaborne thermal coal price refers to the cost of thermal coal that is transported by sea or waterways. This article explores the factors affecting the price, including supply and demand dynamics, transportation costs, and macroeconomic conditions. It also discusses the use of price indexes and benchmarks in tracking the price of seaborne thermal coal, as well as recent trends and future outlook. The article highlights the importance of considering geopolitical and economic risks when making coal-related in

China Settlement Price: ZCE: Thermal Coal: 2nd Month data was reported at 801.400 RMB/Ton in 13 May 2025. This stayed constant from the previous number of 801.400 RMB/Ton for 12 May 2025. China Settlement Price: ZCE: Thermal Coal: 2nd Month data is updated daily, averaging 610.300 RMB/Ton from Sep 2013 (Median) to 13 May 2025, with 2824 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 2,096.400 RMB/Ton in 19 Oct 2021 and a record low of 286.000 RMB/Ton in 14 Jan 2016. China Settlement Price: ZCE: Thermal Coal: 2nd Month data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Zhengzhou Commodity Exchange. The data is categorized under China Premium Database’s Financial Market – Table CN.ZB: Zhengzhou Commodity Exchange: Commodity Futures: Settlement Price: Daily.

Australian coal prices in , May, 2025 For that commodity indicator, we provide data from January 1970 to May 2025. The average value during that period was 58.11 USD per metric ton with a minimum of 7.8 USD per metric ton in January 1970 and a maximum of 430.81 USD per metric ton in September 2022. | TheGlobalEconomy.com

The price of thermal coal is determined by factors such as supply and demand, production costs, environmental regulations, and the availability of alternatives. This article provides an overview of these factors and discusses major global thermal coal price indices. It also highlights the price volatility and uncertainties surrounding the future outlook for thermal coal prices.

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.

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

Thermal Coal Market Outlook

The global thermal coal market size was valued at approximately USD 200 billion in 2023 and is expected to reach around USD 250 billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 2.5%. This moderate but steady growth is primarily driven by the increasing demand for energy and power generation across various regions, particularly in emerging economies. Rising urbanization, industrialization, and economic development are significant factors contributing to this market's expansion.

One of the major growth factors for the thermal coal market is the ongoing demand for reliable and affordable energy sources. Despite a global push towards renewable energy, many regions continue to rely heavily on thermal coal for power generation due to its cost-efficiency and availability. Emerging economies in particular are expanding their thermal coal capacities to meet the growing energy needs of their urban and industrial sectors. Additionally, advancements in clean coal technologies are making coal a more environmentally friendly option, thus driving its demand.

Another critical factor is the role of thermal coal in cement production. The construction and infrastructure development activities worldwide are propelling the demand for cement, and consequently, thermal coal as a key component in cement production. The construction boom in developing countries, coupled with renovation and maintenance activities in developed regions, is expected to sustain the demand for thermal coal in this sector. The affordability and energy density of thermal coal make it a preferred option for cement producers.

Industrial applications of thermal coal, aside from power generation and cement production, also contribute significantly to market growth. Industries such as steel manufacturing, chemicals, and paper production utilize thermal coal due to its high energy content and cost-effectiveness. The diversification of thermal coal applications within these industrial sectors ensures a steady demand, thereby supporting market stability and growth. Additionally, thermal coal serves as a critical input in various industrial processes, reinforcing its indispensable role in industrial activities.

Steelmaking Coal, also known as metallurgical coal, plays a crucial role in the production of steel, which is a fundamental material for infrastructure and industrial development. Unlike thermal coal, which is primarily used for power generation, steelmaking coal is used in the process of creating coke, a key component in steel production. The demand for steelmaking coal is closely tied to the global steel industry, which is driven by construction, automotive, and manufacturing sectors. As economies continue to grow and urbanize, the need for steel and, consequently, steelmaking coal, remains robust. This segment of the coal market is vital for supporting industrial growth and technological advancements, ensuring that steelmaking coal continues to be an essential resource in the global economy.

Regionally, Asia Pacific dominates the thermal coal market due to the high energy demand in countries like China, India, and Indonesia. These countries have extensive thermal coal reserves and are heavily investing in coal-based power plants to support their rapid economic growth. The North American and European markets, on the other hand, are experiencing a gradual decline due to stringent environmental regulations and a shift towards renewable energy. However, Latin America and the Middle East & Africa present growth opportunities owing to their developing infrastructure and increasing industrial activities.

Grade Analysis

High-grade thermal coal, with its superior energy content and efficiency, is in significant demand across markets that require high efficiency and reduced emissions. High-grade coal is predominantly used in power generation and industrial processes where energy output and environmental standards are critical. Despite being more expensive than mid-grade and low-grade coals, its high energy yield per ton makes it cost-effective in the long run. Furthermore, advancements in clean coal technologies are making high-grade coal more attractive as it can meet stringent environmental regulations while providing reliable energy.

Mid-grade thermal coal, which offers a balance between cost and efficiency, is widely used in various applications, including power generation and industrial processes. It is particularly favored in de

API2 Rotterdam coal futures amounted to ***** U.S. dollars per 1,000 metric tons on June 16, 2025 for contracts with delivery in July 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.

Colombia Domestic Price: Thermal Coal: COP data was reported at 127,584.340 COP/Ton in 2015. This records an increase from the previous number of 119,190.240 COP/Ton for 2014. Colombia Domestic Price: Thermal Coal: COP data is updated yearly, averaging 58,881.000 COP/Ton from Dec 1994 (Median) to 2015, with 22 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 127,584.340 COP/Ton in 2015 and a record low of 24,187.000 COP/Ton in 1994. Colombia Domestic Price: Thermal Coal: COP data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Colombian Mining Information System. The data is categorized under Global Database’s Colombia – Table CO.RB029: Coal Price.

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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

The global thermal coal market is a significant energy sector, exhibiting a complex interplay of growth drivers, restraints, and evolving market dynamics. While precise figures for market size and CAGR weren't provided, we can infer a robust market based on the extensive list of major players and geographical segmentation. Considering the established presence of large coal producers like Coal India Limited, China Shenhua Energy Company Limited, and Peabody Energy Corporation, and the continued reliance on coal for power generation in developing economies, a reasonable estimation places the 2025 market size at approximately $250 billion USD. This estimation accounts for the fluctuating global energy landscape and acknowledges ongoing shifts toward renewable sources. Assuming a moderate CAGR of 2.5% (a conservative estimate considering the variable nature of the coal market and the push towards cleaner energy), the market is projected to experience steady growth through 2033. This moderate CAGR reflects the ongoing need for reliable baseload power, particularly in regions with limited renewable energy infrastructure, balanced against increasing environmental regulations and the global drive towards carbon neutrality. Several factors influence this projection. Key drivers include sustained demand from power generation, especially in developing nations experiencing rapid industrialization. However, significant restraints include tightening environmental regulations aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions, the increasing adoption of renewable energy sources, and fluctuating global energy prices. Market segmentation by coal type (lignite, long flame coal, etc.) and application (power generation, locomotive propulsion) reveals varied growth trajectories, with power generation likely remaining the dominant application. The regional breakdown highlights the importance of Asia-Pacific (particularly China and India), which will likely dominate market share due to high energy consumption and existing coal infrastructure. North America and Europe are expected to have lower growth due to increasing environmental concerns and a push towards diversification of energy sources. Competition among the listed companies will remain intense, driven by factors including production costs, operational efficiency, and the ability to adapt to changing regulatory landscapes.

The global coal price index reached 138.87 index points in May 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.

The steam coal price index is a measure of the price of steam coal in the global market. This article provides an overview of the steam coal price index, its importance in the energy sector, and the commonly used indices such as the Global Coal Newcastle Index (GCNC), Miller Argus Index (MAI), and Richards Bay Index (RB Index). It also highlights the role of these indices in tracking price trends, making investment decisions, and understanding market dynamics in the coal industry.