Coal Tar Price Trend

Coal Tar Price Trend, Index and Forecast

Track the latest insights on coal tar 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 Tar Prices Outlook Q2 2025

• USA: US$ 442/MT
• China: US$ 460/MT
• Canada: US$ 462/MT
• South Korea: US$ 530/MT
• France: US$ 510/MT

Coal Tar Price Chart

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During the second quarter of 2025, the coal tar prices in the USA reached 442 USD/MT in June. As per the coal tar price chart, while coal prices fluctuated modestly through Q2, coal tar maintained stability, supported by its industrial niche and demand drivers that did not move in lockstep with thermal coal markets. Besides, summer outage schedules cut coke production days, trimming tar offtake but also reducing supply.

During the second quarter of 2025, the coal tar prices in China reached 460 USD/MT in June. As petroleum coke prices declined sharply, the overall input cost for prebaked anodes dropped, weakening the pricing power of coal tar pitch suppliers. This pushed coal tar pitch prices lower to maintain equilibrium. Besides, coal tar pitch supply was stable and demand did not pick up, causing an oversupply situation relative to demand. This imbalance drove prices further down.

During the second quarter of 2025, coal tar prices in Canada reached 462 USD/MT in June. The reduced coal tar oil exports and imports from the US affected Canada both as a supplier and a buyer, creating price instability and increased sensitivity to regional supply-demand shifts. The elevated US demand for Canadian coal tar oil likely tightened domestic supply, which pushed prices upward in Canada, particularly for domestic consumers.

During the second quarter of 2025, the coal tar prices in South Korea reached 530 USD/MT in June. Coal tar prices in South Korea were influenced by a combination of domestic supply limitations, fluctuating demand from downstream sectors, and global market dynamics. One of the primary drivers was reduced output from domestic coke producers, owing to lower steel production during the quarter. This tightening of supply led to constrained availability of coal tar, pushing prices upward.

During the second quarter of 2025, the coal tar prices in France reached 510 USD/MT in June. Construction and roofing sectors in France maintained predictable consumption levels, offering a supportive base. Besides, high natural gas and electricity costs in Europe elevated production and processing expenditures for coal tar. Moreover, EU sustainability mandates under the European Green Deal and broader regulatory regimes drove investment in cleaner processing and waste handling. That increased operational costs for coal tar producers and processors.

Coal Tar Prices Outlook Q1 2025

• USA: US$ 435/MT
• China: US$ 470/MT
• Canada: US$ 475/MT
• South Korea: US$ 550/MT
• France: US$ 490/MT

During the first quarter of 2025, the coal tar prices in the USA reached US$ 435/MT in March. Prices witnessed moderate fluctuations driven by shifts in domestic steel production and coke oven activity. Regulatory scrutiny around environmental compliance, especially in handling hazardous by-products, also influenced production levels. Meanwhile, demand remained steady from key downstream sectors such as aluminium smelting and graphite electrode manufacturing. The quarter also saw logistical challenges due to winter disruptions in parts of the Midwest, slightly affecting coal tar transportation and regional supply dynamics.

During the first quarter of 2025, the coal tar prices in China reached US$ 470/MT in March. Prices remained volatile during the quarter, primarily influenced by declining coking coal costs, reduced steel mill operations, and oversupply in the domestic market. Environmental regulations and weak demand from downstream sectors like aluminium and carbon black further pressured prices. However, intermittent buying interest for restocking supported brief recoveries. Overall, market sentiment stayed cautious, with buyers closely monitoring industrial production and policy signals from the Chinese government regarding infrastructure and heavy industry investment.

During the first quarter of 2025, the coal tar prices in Canada reached US$ 475/MT in March. Early in 2025, output problems at large refineries, including interruptions from planned maintenance and fires, resulted in limited supply conditions for the European coal tar market. Demand did not increase dramatically, but it did stay constant, particularly from companies associated with agriculture. Prices were high due to this balance between limited supply and steady demand.

During the first quarter of 2025, the coal tar prices in the South Korea reached US$ 550/MT in March. The pricing trend remained relatively stable, reflecting steady demand from domestic aluminium smelting operations, particularly in Quebec, which is home to several large-scale smelters. Canada’s coal tar consumption was also shaped by environmental compliance under federal regulations and shifts in export-import activity, influencing supply chain costs and availability

During the first quarter of 2025, the coal tar prices in the France reached US$ 490/MT in March. The market showed steady growth driven by demand from the aluminium smelting and electrode manufacturing sectors. Stringent environmental regulations under REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals) influenced production and usage.

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 the coal tar prices.

Global Coal Tar Price Trend

The report offers a holistic view of the global coal tar pricing trends in the form of coal tar price charts, reflecting the worldwide interplay of supply-demand balances, international trade policies, and overarching economic factors that shape the market on a macro level. This comprehensive analysis not only highlights current price levels but also provides insights into historical price of coal tar, enabling stakeholders to understand past fluctuations and their underlying causes. The report also delves into price forecast models, projecting future price movements based on a variety of indicators such as expected changes in supply chain dynamics, anticipated policy shifts, and emerging market trends. By examining these factors, the report equips industry participants with the necessary tools to make informed strategic decisions, manage risks, and capitalize on market opportunities. Furthermore, it includes a detailed coal tar demand analysis, breaking down regional variations and identifying key drivers specific to each geographic market, thus offering a nuanced understanding of the global pricing landscape.

Europe Coal Tar Price Trend

Q2 2025:

In the second quarter of 2025, coal tar prices in Europe were influenced by a combination of supply-side disruptions and sluggish downstream demand. Tighter feedstock availability from coke oven operators amid decarbonization measures in the steel industry further constrained coal tar supply in the region. On the demand side, consumption from key downstream sectors such as aluminum smelting and graphite electrode manufacturing remained weak. Moreover, the construction and automotive sectors, which influence demand for related downstream chemicals, showed only marginal recovery, offering limited support to market fundamentals. As a result, despite supply constraints, overall market sentiment remained subdued, and coal tar prices exhibited only marginal fluctuations during Q2 2025.

Q1 2025:

As per the coal tar price index, Europe experienced a downward trend, influenced by subdued industrial activity and reduced steel production in key markets such as Germany and the UK. The shift towards cleaner energy sources and a slowdown in coal-based industries placed downward pressure on coal tar availability and pricing. Regulatory measures focused on environmental compliance also influenced operational costs and supply dynamics.

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

North America Coal Tar Price Trend

Q2 2025:

As evident by the coal tar price index, the tightening of supply put upward pressure on domestic coal tar oil prices, especially for downstream industries such as aluminum smelting and specialty chemicals. Besides, imports fell sharply in the US, and exports also dropped, which partially offset the supply crunch. Hence, more products stayed within domestic borders than would have otherwise been exported. This blunted the potential for a more dramatic price increase in North America, as domestic producers had fewer international outlets for their excess inventory.

Q1 2025:

North America showed a moderate trend, supported by a recovery in industrial demand and tighter coal tar supply. Increased activity in the aluminium and graphite electrode industries contributed to a firmer pricing environment. Additionally, improvements in feedstock coal availability and a gradual stabilization of inventories helped reduce earlier volatility in the market

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

Middle East and Africa Coal Tar Price Trend

Q2 2025:

The report explores the coal tar trends and coal tar 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.

Q1 2025:

The report explores the coal tar trends and coal tar 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.

Asia Pacific Coal Tar Price Trend

Q2 2025:

China is the largest producer and consumer of coal tar pitch in the Asia Pacific region. As such, price movements in China heavily influenced neighboring markets, especially in Southeast Asia, South Asia, and East Asia (e.g., Japan, Korea, India, Vietnam). Coal tar pitch prices in China dropped, setting a new regional pricing reference. Hence, buyers in neighboring countries adjusted expectations downward, pushing for lower prices from domestic and Chinese suppliers alike. This applied deflationary pressure across the regional coal tar pitch market. Moreover, weak downstream demand aligned with falling costs, leading to a supply-demand imbalance and contributing to the regional decline in coal tar pitch prices.

Q1 2025:

In Asia-Pacific, coal tar prices remained under pressure due to rising feedstock costs and weaker demand from downstream industries. Key markets such as China, India, and Southeast Asia witnessed moderate price fluctuations as coal and coke supply adapted to slower industrial activity. Export-driven suppliers faced limited pricing support, despite brief periods of restocking. Overall, the region's coal tar market was marked by continued oversupply and cautious purchasing behaviour, with a gradual recovery anticipated as manufacturing and infrastructure sectors regain momentum.

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

Latin America Coal Tar Price Trend

Q2 2025:

Latin America's coal tar market is predominantly influenced by its rich natural reserves, particularly in countries like Chile and Brazil. However, political instability and inconsistent regulatory frameworks can lead to significant volatility in coal tar prices. Infrastructure challenges and logistical inefficiencies often impact the supply chain, affecting the region's ability to meet international demand consistently. Moreover, the coal tar price index, economic fluctuations, and currency devaluation are critical factors that need to be considered when analyzing coal tar pricing trends in this region.

Q1 2025:

Latin America's coal tar market is predominantly influenced by its rich natural reserves, particularly in countries like Chile and Brazil. However, political instability and inconsistent regulatory frameworks can lead to significant volatility in coal tar prices. Infrastructure challenges and logistical inefficiencies often impact the supply chain, affecting the region's ability to meet international demand consistently. Moreover, the coal tar price index, economic fluctuations, and currency devaluation are critical factors that need to be considered when analyzing coal tar pricing trends in this region.

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

Coal Tar Price Trend, Market Analysis, and News

IMARC's latest publication, “Coal Tar Prices, Trend, Chart, Demand, Market Analysis, News, Historical and Forecast Data Report 2025 Edition,” presents a detailed examination of the coal tar market, providing insights into both global and regional trends that are shaping prices. This report delves into the spot price of coal tar at major ports and analyzes the composition of prices, including FOB and CIF terms. It also presents detailed coal tar prices trend analysis by region, covering North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and Middle East and Africa. The factors affecting coal tar 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 Tar Industry Analysis

The global coal tar industry size reached US$ 16.4 Billion in 2024. By 2033, IMARC Group expects the market to reach US$ 24.4 Billion, at a projected CAGR of 4.20% during 2025-2033.

• A significant trend driving the coal tar market is the growing demand for coal tar pitch, which is essential in the production of carbon anodes for aluminium smelting. The International Aluminium Institute reported a global aluminium production of over 70 million metric tons in 2023, with China contributing nearly 60% of the output. As coal tar pitch is the primary binder in anode manufacturing, this high production volume directly supports market growth. Additionally, the increasing adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) is spurring demand for needle coke and synthetic graphite, derived from coal tar, for lithium-ion battery anodes. According to the IEA, EV sales surpassed 17 million units in 2024, and this figure is expected to reach over 20 million by 2025, reinforcing demand for coal tar derivatives.
• The coal tar industry is under mounting pressure due to strict environmental regulations in regions like North America and Europe. Coal tar contains polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), which are considered hazardous, prompting regulatory bodies to impose restrictions on its handling, storage, and use. As a result, many industries are actively exploring bio-based pitches and synthetic binders as safer, sustainable alternatives. This trend is pushing traditional coal tar processors to invest in cleaner technologies and emission-control systems to remain competitive and compliant.
• Emerging economies, particularly in Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and Africa, are witnessing rapid industrialization and infrastructure development, leading to increased use of coal tar in construction, waterproofing, and road surfacing applications. The demand for high-quality carbon black in the tire and rubber industries is also surging, further boosting coal tar utilization. As governments in these regions continue to invest in urban expansion and manufacturing capacity, coal tar is finding renewed relevance in building materials, sealants, and coatings, making these geographies key growth engines for the industry.

Coal Tar News

The report covers the latest developments, updates, and trends impacting the global coal tar industry, providing stakeholders with timely and relevant information. This segment covers a wide array of news items, including the inauguration of new production facilities, advancements in coal tar production technologies, strategic market expansions by key industry players, and significant mergers and acquisitions that impact the coal tar price trend.

Latest developments in the Coal Tar industry:

• January 2025: Rain CII Carbon (Vizag) Ltd., a subsidiary of Rain Carbon Inc., began developing a coal tar distillation and pitch-upgrading facility in Anakapalli, Andhra Pradesh SEZ. Phase I, with a $5 million investment, will process 50,000 metric tons of pitch annually by H2 2025. Phase II aims to expand capacity to 200,000 metric tons using both domestic and imported feedstocks. The project is expected to support India’s aluminium, graphite, and battery industries, with all environmental approvals secured.

Product Description

Coal tar is a thick, black, and viscous liquid obtained as a byproduct during the carbonization of coal in coke ovens under high temperatures in the absence of air. It is a complex chemical mixture containing aromatic hydrocarbons, phenols, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), and various heterocyclic compounds.

Coal tar is widely used across multiple industries due to its unique chemical properties. Industrially, it is processed into coal-tar pitch, which is utilized in roofing, paving, and aluminium smelting. It also serves as a base for manufacturing dyes, resins, synthetic fibres, and other chemical intermediates. In the pharmaceutical sector, coal tar is used in low concentrations to treat skin conditions such as psoriasis, eczema, and seborrheic dermatitis due to its anti-inflammatory and anti-itch properties.

However, with proper handling protocols in place, coal tar remains a strategically important material, valued for its broad industrial applications and consistent performance across key sectors.

Report Coverage

Key Benefits for Stakeholders:

• IMARC’s report presents a detailed analysis of coal tar 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 tar 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 tar price charts ensure our clients remain at the forefront of the industry.