Global Trade Flows

Currently some 650 million tons of coal are traded internationally. Not surprisingly, given the high regional correlation between production and consumption, this represents only around 12% of global coal consumption. Of this total, around 70% is steam coal and 30% coking coal.

Japan is by far the largest importer (137 million tons in 2001), while the 15 countries of the European Union imported about 190 million tons in 2001.

Among exporters, Australia dominates the market (about 190 million tons, or more than 30% of the market), because of its role as Asia's, and particularly Japan's supplier. It is distantly followed by China (100 million tons per year). China has posted the fastest growth in exports in recent years (+178% between 1998 and 2001), but is projected to become a big net importer in the near future.

The share of coal trade is expected to remain modest, but the geographical composition of trade will probably keep shifting from Europe to Asia, led by growing consumption from China, India, the Philippines and Malaysia.