U.S. coal exports declined by 11% in the first half of 2025, totaling 46.8 million short tons (MMst), according to data released by the U.S. Census Bureau.
The drop was largely driven by weaker shipments to China, which accounted for nearly three-quarters of the total decline.
Steam coal exports fell 10% year on year to 22.5 MMst, while metallurgical coal exports were down 13% to 24.2 MMst. Exports to China (4.4 MMst) made up 73% of the net fall, reflecting new trade barriers and reduced buying interest.
China imposed an additional 15% tariff on U.S. coal imports in February, followed by a 34% reciprocal tariff in April, sharply curbing trade flows.
The downturn also reflects a global coal market marked by ample supply and soft demand, which has pressured prices worldwide.
Domestically, however, U.S. coal consumption in the power sector has increased as utilities responded to higher natural gas prices and stronger electricity demand.
Source: EIA
