Global coal shipments edge up 2% w-o-w on Atlantic strength; Pacific flows remain mixed

• Atlantic basin strengthens, led by Colombia, Canada and South Africa
• Indonesian exports decline, restricting overall shipment growth

Global seaborne coal export shipments increased 2.2% w-o-w to 15.73 million tonnes (mnt) in the week ended 13 March 2026, recovering from the previous week’s decline. The uptick was primarily driven by stronger exports from the Atlantic basin, particularly Colombia, Canada, South Africa and the US. However, gains were partially offset by a decline in Indonesian shipments, while Australian exports recorded only marginal growth.

Country-wise trends

Port & shipper-wise trends

Pacific flows mixed amid steady Asian demand

In the Pacific, Australian shipments reached 5.8 mnt, led by Newcastle (2.8 mnt), DBCT and Gladstone (0.95 mnt each), with Japan (1.65 mnt) and China (1.19 mnt) as key destinations.

Indonesian exports stood at 5.5 mnt, with Taboneo (1.25 mnt) leading loadings, supported by India (1.27 mnt) and China (0.97 mnt).

Atlantic flows show selective strength

The US recorded shipments of 1.7 mnt, with Norfolk (0.77 mnt) leading exports, followed by Baltimore (0.46 mnt). India (0.72 mnt) remained a key buyer during the week.

South African exports rose to 1.4 mnt, with Richards Bay accounting for the entire volume, while India (0.51 mnt) remained the key destination.

Canadian shipments increased to 0.5 mnt, led by Roberts Bank (0.46 mnt), with Japan (0.32 mnt) among the key buyers.

Meanwhile, Colombian exports rose to 0.7 mnt, with Puerto Nuevo (0.38 mnt) and Puerto Bolivar (0.34 mnt) leading loadings, while Carbosan (0.38 mnt) and Cerrejon mines (0.34 mnt) supported supply.

Coal freights to India remain firm

Dry bulk coal freight rates to India remained firm w-o-w, supported by steady cargo flows and firm tonnage demand despite slow vessel fixing. BigMint noted that limited prompt vessel availability and elevated bunker prices continued to underpin freight levels, while Atlantic demand-supply remained balanced.

Outlook

Global coal export flows are expected to remain mixed near term. Pacific shipments may see limited upside amid steady Asian demand, while Indonesian exports could stay under pressure due to seasonal disruptions and cautious buying. Atlantic exports are likely to remain supported, though vessel availability and freight dynamics will continue to influence trade flows.