Australia's coking coal exports rose six percent month-on-month and 20 percent year-on-year in May 2026 to 13.2 million tonnes from 11.28 million tonnes in April. The improvement was primarily driven by increased purchases from key Asian steel-producing countries, improved cargo availability and smoother port operations following previous supply disruptions.
Collectively, exports reached 59.08 million tonnes in January-May 2026, up four percent from 56.8 million tonnes in the corresponding period in 2025, reflecting robust global demand for premium metallurgical products. coal.
Divergent import trends in key Asian markets
Import patterns among major buyers remain mixed, highlighting different steel market dynamics and stock positions. India's imports fell sharply by 46 percent month-on-month to 1.81 million tonnes and 52 percent year-on-year, mainly due to higher imported coal prices, comfortable inventories at steel mills and lower steel prices in India.
Japan's imports increased 17 percent month-on-month to 2.51 million tonnes, supported by stable steel production requirements and regular inventory replenishment activities. South Korea's imports fell 24 percent month-on-month to 1.35 million tons and 15 percent year-on-year, reflecting cautious raw material purchases amid weakening steel sector margins.
China was the main driver of growth, with imports from Australia up 114 percent month-on-month to 1.48 million tons and increased by 77 percent year-on-year, supported by stronger procurement activity, improved end-user demand and competitive availability of Australian material.
Vietnam also recorded strong import growth, up 31 percent month-on-month to 1.23 million tonnes and up 48 percent year-on-year, supported by strong industrial activity and the continued preference for Australian coal due to its reliable supply and quality. Meanwhile, Taiwan's imports rose 35 percent month-on-month to 0.62 million tons and 17 percent year-on-year as buyers returned to secure cargoes amid firm price expectations.
Coking coal prices rise due to limited availability
