Global Coal Demand to Hit Record 8.94 Bn Tonnes Amid Hormuz Energy Crisis 📈

• Key Demand Figures & Market Movements Global coal demand is forecast to increase by 1.2% year-over-year (YoY) to a record high of 8.94 Bn metric tonnes in 2026. Higher natural gas prices and LNG shipping disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz maritime trade corridor are prompting countries across Asia and Europe to switch from gas to coal. • Regional Breakdown & Top Markets • China: Coal demand to grow 1% YoY to 5 Bn tonnes, driven by power demand and chemical production. • India: Demand to rise 4.2% YoY to 1.353 Bn tonnes, amplified by strong El Niño weather patterns reducing hydropower. • United States: Demand to decline ~7% YoY due to abundant domestic gas and new solar/wind capacity. • Other Key Markets: Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Bangladesh, Philippines, Thailand, Vietnam, and several European nations are expanding coal reliance to meet generation shortfalls. • Macro & Environmental Impact While global coal production is expected to dip slightly YoY in 2026 after matching record levels in 2025, coal-related emissions are set to rise significantly. This comes as energy-related CO2 emissions already grew 1.1% in 2025 to 35.81 Bn tonnes, further pressuring global climate commitments to limit warming to 1.5°C.