The US Energy Information Administration (EIA) raised its 2026 US coal export projection to 102 million short tons from the previously forecasted 98 million short tons, driven by a 32% year-over-year jump in June exports.

Metallurgical coal shipments grew throughout the first half of 2026, supported by mine openings and reopenings including Blue Creek, Longview, and Leer South. Steam coal exports rebounded in April, May, and June after early declines.

Global coal utilization increased due to seasonal restocking, supply tightness, geopolitical disruptions affecting natural gas prices, weather patterns, and rising solar and wind curtailments in China.