In-brief analysis
October 31, 2025
U.S. coal exports declined 11% in the first half of 2025 due to reduced exports to China
Data source: U.S. Energy Information Administration, Short-Term Energy Outlook
Note: 1Q20=first quarter of 2020
Note: 1Q20=first quarter of 2020
- According to data released by the U.S. Census Bureau in September, the United States exported 46.8 million short tons (MMst) of coal in the first half of 2025 (1H25), an 11% decline from 1H24.
- Steam coal exports totaled 22.5 MMst, a 10% decline from 1H24. Metallurgical coal exports totaled 24.2 MMst, a 13% decline from 1H24.
- Reduced coal exports to China (4.4 MMst) accounted for 73% of the decline in total U.S. net coal exports. China accounted for 76% of the decline in metallurgical coal exports and 68% of the decline in steam coal exports.
- U.S. exports to China decreased after China imposed a 15% additional tariff on imports of U.S. coal in February and a 34% reciprocal tariff on imports from the United States in April.
- The reduction in total exports also reflects a global market characterized by declining coal prices caused by ample supply and soft demand. Meanwhile, coal consumption in the U.S. electric power sector has risen due to more demand and higher natural gas prices.
Principal contributor: Jonathan Church
Tags: coal, exports/imports, international, China