Insight
Global thermal coal: 2018 in review
*Please note that this report only includes an Excel data file if this is indicated in "What's included" below
Report summary
The thermal coal market had quite the dynamic year in 2018 with volatility and uncertainty weighing heavily. This review insight looks at factors that made the 2018 thermal coal market reach highs and lows not seen for many years. In this report we examine why pricing outperformed expectations in 2018 but not all coals fared equally when it came to price spreads between markets and coal types. We also outline why seaborne demand stronger was than expected and the patchy response from the supply side. Lastly we address how the thermal coal landscape has changed with further corporate activity in the sector.
Table of contents
-
Pricing outperformed expectations in 2018 but not all coals fared equally
- January-April
- May-July
- August-October
- November-December
-
Seaborne demand stronger than expected
- China failed to maintain 2018 imports at previous year's level
- India supply continues to disappoint amid strong economic performance
- Europe demand decline is building momentum
- Global supply response was patchy, but Indonesia and the US rise to the occasion
- Corporate activity changing the coal landscape
Tables and charts
This report includes the following images and tables:
-
2018 average monthly thermal coal pricesSeaborne demand to 2000-2018Change in demand 2017-2018Thermal coal M&A Activity and implied price
What's included
This report contains:
Other reports you may be interested in
Insight
Perspectives - Metals and Mining - April 2026
A cross-commodity outlook
$1,050
Insight
Oil demand to 2018: five risks to watch
A look at the five key risks to our oil demand forecast in 2017 and 2018
$1,350
Insight
Transport in transition: the role of fuel efficiency
Assessing the impact of fuel efficiency improvements on global oil demand
$2,500
