Coal Price Trend

Coal Price Trend, Index and Forecast

Track the latest insights on coal price trend and forecast with detailed analysis of regional fluctuations and market dynamics across North America, Latin America, Central Europe, Western Europe, Eastern Europe, Middle East, North Africa, West Africa, Central and Southern Africa, Central Asia, Southeast Asia, South Asia, East Asia, and Oceania.

Coal Prices Outlook Q3 2025

• USA: USD 149/MT
• China: USD 150/MT
• South Africa: USD 93/MT
• Brazil: USD 163/MT
• Japan: USD 154/MT

Coal Price Chart

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During the third quarter of 2025, the coal prices in the USA reached 149 USD/MT in September. Coal prices trended upward as demand from power generation sectors strengthened significantly. Seasonal energy requirements and replenishment of utility inventories supported increased offtake, prompting buyers to secure supplies earlier and at firm levels. Mining producers exercised disciplined output strategies that limited surplus availability, reinforcing supplier leverage in negotiations.

During the third quarter of 2025, the coal prices in China reached 150 USD/MT in September. Prices declined as domestic industrial activity operated at moderated levels, resulting in reduced coal consumption from power plants and manufacturing units. Ample inventory levels across major ports and mining regions added downward pressure, as producers maintained consistent output despite weaker domestic uptake. Import demand also cooled amid comfortable domestic availability and stable seaborne supply, further reducing price momentum.

During the third quarter of 2025, the coal prices in South Africa reached 93 USD/MT in September. Market sentiment remained bearish as overseas buyers maintained conservative procurement strategies amid balanced global supply conditions. Export competitiveness was affected by fluctuating freight market conditions, limiting the ability of suppliers to secure stronger price realizations. Domestic consumption levels showed limited improvement, with industrial users maintaining moderate intake in line with steady operational activity.

During the third quarter of 2025, the coal prices in Brazil reached 163 USD/MT in September. Prices rose as power generation units increased intake amid seasonally elevated energy demand. Import dependence heightened market sensitivity to fluctuations in international offers, which were strengthened by firm supplier sentiment in key exporting regions. Domestic supply availability remained limited, enhancing reliance on seaborne cargoes and elevating procurement costs.

During the third quarter of 2025, the coal prices in Japan reached 154 USD/MT in September. Prices declined as power utilities exhibited conservative procurement tendencies, supported by comfortable stocks accumulated earlier in the year. Industrial coal consumption remained steady but did not generate additional upward momentum. Imports from major supplying countries flowed regularly, ensuring adequate availability and reducing supply-driven volatility.

Coal Prices Outlook Q2 2025

• USA: USD 140/MT
• China: USD 154/MT
• South Africa: USD 100/MT
• Brazil: USD 157/MT
• Japan: USD 162/MT

During the second quarter of 2025, coal prices in the USA reached 140 USD/MT in June. In the USA, coal prices experienced mild softening. Reduced power sector demand, combined with high domestic supply levels, contributed to this trend. The ongoing energy transition toward cleaner sources, combined with declining coal plant utilization rates, has maintained downward pressure on pricing. Export volumes, particularly to Asia, continued but at a moderated pace, keeping the market environment relatively subdued.

During the second quarter of 2025, coal prices in China reached 154 USD/MT in June. China’s coal prices trended slightly lower compared to the previous quarter. Robust domestic production, coupled with restrained industrial demand and stockpiled inventories at major ports, weighed on market sentiment. Government interventions to ensure supply security and cap prices also contributed to softer pricing across both thermal and coking coal segments.

During the second quarter of 2025, coal prices in South Africa reached 100 USD/MT in June. South Africa’s coal prices in the second quarter of 2025 remained under slight pressure, primarily due to consistent export volumes and subdued demand from key Asian buyers. Domestic consumption from power plants remained steady, but international price benchmarks softened.

During the second quarter of 2025, coal prices in Brazil reached 157 USD/MT in June. In Brazil, coal prices in Q2 2025 showed a stable to soft movement. With moderate industrial demand and no significant uptick in thermal coal consumption, prices stayed under control. Import reliance, especially for metallurgical coal, persisted but was balanced by competitive global supply. The market reflected consistent pricing with limited volatility.

During the second quarter of 2025, coal prices in Japan reached 162 USD/MT in June. Coal prices in Japan experienced a marginal downward trend due to lower spot procurement from utilities, despite adequate inventory levels. Increased LNG imports and a mild start to the summer further reduced the need for coal-fired power generation. Additionally, policy-driven shifts toward renewable energy added pressure on thermal coal demand, resulting in stable to slightly softer market prices.

Coal Prices Outlook Q1 2025

• USA: USD 138/MT
• China: USD 158/MT
• South Africa: USD 101/MT
• Brazil: USD 155/MT
• Japan: USD 161/MT

During the first quarter of 2025, the coal prices in the USA reached 138 USD/MT in March. As per the coal price chart, the market saw erratic price trends, primarily due to weather, demand, and supply disruptions. A polar vortex that interrupted mining operations and caused production delays in January caused a significant price spike. Prices increased as a result of this weather catastrophe and growing demand from new businesses like data centers and artificial intelligence.

During the first quarter of 2025, coal prices in China reached 158 USD/MT in March. The market fluctuated due to a combination of internal and external variables. Strong local demand and supply chain interruptions caused prices to surge in January. But as the quarter went on, prices fell as Chinese consumers had to contend with more competition from less expensive coal suppliers. Despite continued demand from important sectors, prices were impacted by regulatory concerns surrounding coal exports.

During the first quarter of 2025, the coal prices in South Africa reached 101 USD/MT in March. Reduced consumption and supply disruptions, particularly in the steel sector, caused January prices to fall. The problem of excess supply continued, and by March, declining global demand and logistical difficulties had caused coal prices to drop even more. Any possible price recovery was constrained by the weak export demand despite high local power generation use.

During the first quarter of 2025, the coal prices in Brazil reached 155 USD/MT in March. The market experienced a combination of price volatility and demand fluctuations. Domestic consumption remained stable, but international demand weakened. Supply disruptions from neighboring countries and logistical challenges added to the market's instability.

During the first quarter of 2025, the coal prices in Japan reached 161 USD/MT in March. High gas prices caused a brief increase in the use of coal, but Japan persisted in its drive for greener energy. Although the need for coal to generate electricity remained constant, global market forces and legislative adjustments caused prices to decline.

Regional Coverage

The report provides a detailed analysis of the market across different regions, each with unique pricing dynamics influenced by localized market conditions, supply chain intricacies, and geopolitical factors. This includes price trends, price forecast and supply and demand trends for each region, along with spot prices by major ports. The report also provides coverage of FOB and CIF prices, as well as the key factors influencing coal prices.

Europe Coal Price Trend

Q3 2025:

During Q3, coal market conditions in Europe were shaped by balanced interactions between supply and demand. Regional producers maintained regular output, while import flows from major exporting countries continued without notable interruption. Utilities held sufficient inventory levels, enabling cautious and planned procurement. Consumption was influenced by seasonal power generation needs and ongoing fuel switching dynamics. Overall, the market exhibited limited momentum, influencing coal prices throughout the quarter.

Q2 2025:

In Europe, coal prices experienced a largely stable to slightly softening trend. Weaker demand from the power generation sector, driven by increased renewable energy usage and a mild start to the summer season, moderated coal procurement. Additionally, high coal inventories from earlier purchases and stable supply from global exporters contributed to the subdued pricing environment. Regulatory pressures related to carbon emissions also played a role in dampening coal demand from European utilities, keeping price movements restrained across key regional markets.

Q1 2025:

As per the coal price index, high gas costs, a hike in the production of renewable energy, and the continent's continuous transition to cleaner energy sources contributed to a discernible drop in the market. Due to the January spike in gas prices, coal became more cost-effective than gas, and nations like Germany and Poland switched back to using it to generate electricity. Higher gas prices temporarily increased demand for coal, although overall, coal usage in Europe was declining.

This analysis can be extended to include detailed coal price information for a comprehensive list of countries.

North America Coal Price Trend

Q3 2025:

During Q3 2025, coal prices in North America demonstrated a rising trend supported by expanding demand from both domestic and cross-border buyers. Utilities and industrial consumers increased procurement to support seasonal energy needs, tightening available stocks and encouraging earlier restocking activity. Export interest from key global markets added further pressure on supply, strengthening pricing signals across major trading hubs. Logistics networks operated efficiently, though competition for rail and port capacity sustained upward pressure on delivered costs.

Q2 2025:

Coal prices in North America during Q2 2025 remained relatively stable with slight downward adjustments. Declining demand from the power generation sector, due to increased renewable energy penetration and reduced coal-fired plant operations, contributed to this trend. High inventory levels and steady production volumes from key mining areas also capped any significant price increases. Export activity to Asia continued but at moderated levels, reflecting global market pressures and subdued buying activity.

Q1 2025:

Weather events, changing demand, and supply constraints caused price swings in the US coal market. January saw a sharp hike in prices as a result of a polar vortex that hindered mining activities and decreased coal production. Prices elevated as a result of this disruption and the growing demand from the data centers and AI companies, which led to a shortage of supply. In addition, as the industry awaited policy changes, the potential for regulatory changes under the new administration contributed to the price increases. As supply expanded, especially to satisfy demand from the steel industry, prices began to decline marginally by February.

Specific coal historical data within the United States and Canada can also be provided.

Middle East and Africa Coal Price Trend

Q3 2025:

The report explores the coal trends and coal price chart in the Middle East and Africa, considering factors like regional industrial growth, the availability of natural resources, and geopolitical tensions that uniquely influence market prices.

Q2 2025:

In the Middle East and Africa, coal prices remained stable, with only minor downward pressure. Demand from the regional cement and industrial sectors persisted but did not significantly boost coal imports, as alternative fuel usage was also a factor. Ample supply from international coal markets, especially from South Africa, kept prices in check. Currency fluctuations and logistical costs contributed to localized price variations, but overall, the market reflected balanced supply-and-demand dynamics.

Q1 2025:

As per the coal price chart, the market saw a persistent decline driven by problems with oversupply and poor demand. Due to reduced use in the steel industry, prices dropped in January. As supply remained excessive and demand from important international markets like India and the Asia-Pacific region faltered, prices fell more in February. Moreover, despite a modest rebound in Mid-CV coal, the market stayed muted.

In addition to region-wise data, information on coal prices for countries can also be provided.

Asia Pacific Coal Price Trend

Q3 2025:

The Asia Pacific region witnessed bearish coal market dynamics with prices influenced by varying demand patterns across major consuming nations. Some markets experienced softer utility intake due to comfortable stock positions, while others showed firm procurement linked to seasonal power requirements. Seaborne supply flows from dominant exporting countries remained steady, offering consistent availability throughout the quarter. Freight networks operated smoothly, ensuring predictable landed costs.

Q2 2025:

Coal prices in the Asia-Pacific region exhibited a mixed but generally softening trend. Weaker industrial demand in major economies such as China and India, coupled with sufficient domestic production and ample imports, pressured prices downward. Energy transition initiatives and shifts toward cleaner fuels in some countries further reduced reliance on coal.

Q1 2025:

In the first quarter of 2025, weather disruptions and regulation changes caused varied price movements in Indonesia's coal market. Due to supply shortages brought on by heavy rains in important mining areas and a new rule forcing coal exporters to keep USD profits domestically, coal prices hiked in January. Prices rose as a result of these factors, which also reduced the supply of coal and raised operating costs. The price increase was also supported by demand from outside, especially from Southeast Asia and India. However, as supply stayed stable and market uncertainty escalated, coal prices saw a drop in February.

This coal price analysis can be expanded to include a comprehensive list of countries within the region.

Latin America Coal Price Trend

Q3 2025:

In Latin America, coal prices demonstrated an upward trend supported by steady demand from power producers and industrial users. Importing nations maintained active procurement to ensure a consistent supply amid seasonally shifting electricity consumption patterns. Supply from key exporting regions remained reliable, though occasional logistical challenges influenced buyer sentiment. Inventory levels across regional terminals were generally well managed, reducing the likelihood of supply tightness.

Q2 2025:

Coal prices in Latin America during Q2 2025 saw a soft trend, influenced by steady supply and limited demand growth from the power and industrial sectors. Increased hydropower generation in some countries reduced dependency on thermal coal. Additionally, export volumes from Colombia remained consistent, contributing to a stable market environment. Regional consumption patterns and subdued international market conditions kept coal prices from experiencing significant volatility.

Q1 2025:

As per the coal price index, prices experienced a decline in the first quarter of 2025, reflecting a broader global trend of weakening demand and steady supply. Besides, geopolitical tensions and economic policy uncertainty also played a role. Moreover, weak import demand and increases in seaborne coal supply also played a significant role.

This comprehensive review can be extended to include specific countries within the region.

Coal Pricing Report, Market Analysis, and News

IMARC's latest publication, “Coal Prices, Trend, Chart, Demand, Market Analysis, News, Historical and Forecast Data Report 2025 Edition,” presents a detailed examination of the coal market, providing insights into both global and regional trends that are shaping prices. This report delves into the spot price of coal at major ports and analyzes the composition of prices, including FOB and CIF terms. It also presents detailed coal prices trend analysis by region, covering North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and Middle East and Africa. The factors affecting coal pricing, such as the dynamics of supply and demand, geopolitical influences, and sector-specific developments, are thoroughly explored. This comprehensive report helps stakeholders stay informed with the latest market news, regulatory updates, and technological progress, facilitating informed strategic decision-making and forecasting.

Coal Industry Analysis

The global coal market size reached 10.2 Billion Tons in 2025. By 2034, IMARC Group expects the market to reach 19.0 Billion Tons, at a projected CAGR of 7.13% during 2026-2034. The market is primarily driven by the steady demand from power generation, consistent industrial consumption, reliable seaborne supply flows, stable mining activity, and predictable transportation networks.

Latest News and Developments:

• December 2025: The European Commission adopted proposals COM(2025)759 and COM(2025)760 to update the legal framework of the Research Fund for Coal and Steel. These measures are designed to channel research and innovation funding toward advancing decarbonization efforts and supporting a cleaner transition within the coal and steel industries, while also enhancing Europe’s overall competitiveness.

Product Description

Coal is a combustible black or brownish-black sedimentary rock created from rock strata known as coal seams. It consists of carbon and varying amounts of additional elements, such as hydrogen, sulfur, oxygen, and nitrogen. Coal is classified into four varieties depending on carbon concentration, including anthracite, bituminous, sub-bituminous, and lignite, each with specific qualities, such as energy content, carbon percentage, and moisture level. 

Coal is used in power generation, steel manufacture, cement making, liquid fuel, and as a carbon source for industrial purposes. It also finds use in the creation of synthetic natural gas, and in the manufacturing of carbon fiber and silicon metal. Coal has various advantages, including its abundance, dependability as an energy source, and its significance in supporting economic development in coal-rich regions.

Report Coverage

Key Benefits for Stakeholders:

• IMARC’s report presents a detailed analysis of coal pricing, covering global and regional trends, spot prices at key ports, and a breakdown of FOB and CIF prices.
• The study examines factors affecting coal price trend, including input costs, supply-demand shifts, and geopolitical impacts, offering insights for informed decision-making.
• The competitive landscape review equips stakeholders with crucial insights into the latest market news, regulatory changes, and technological advancements, ensuring a well-rounded, strategic overview for forecasting and planning.
• IMARC offers various subscription options, including monthly, quarterly, and biannual updates, allowing clients to stay informed with the latest market trends, ongoing developments, and comprehensive market insights. The coal price charts ensure our clients remain at the forefront of the industry.