Australia: Coal shipments from key ports rise over 10% m-o-m in Apr'26 on improved export activity

• Coal exports from Port Hay Point surge by 40% m-o-m
  
  
• Mixed Asian demand keeps coal prices range-bound
  
  

Australian coal shipments through major export ports totalled 6.49 million tonnes (mnt) in April 2026, up 13.6% m-o-m from 5.71 mnt in March, reflecting improved export activity and steady seaborne coal demand across key Asian markets.

Global demand sentiment for coking coal remained cautious amid uneven steel production trends across Asia. However, stronger buying from South Korea and Vietnam offset weaker demand from Japan and Taiwan, while India maintained measured procurement. Consequently, coking coal prices largely remained largely stable despite improving export volumes.

Port-wise export performance

• Port Hay Point recorded coal shipments of 3.45 mnt in April 2026, surging 40.8% from 2.45 mnt in March. The sharp increase indicates stronger coking coal loading activity and improved vessel movement, supporting firm freight sentiment for Capesize and Panamax segments.
  
  
• Port Abbot Point recorded coal shipments of 2.1 mnt in April, down 13.9% from 2.44 mnt in March. The decline suggests relatively softer export activity and cautious cargo flow momentum, although the port continues to remain strategically important for Queensland's metallurgical coal exports.
  
  
• Port Weipa recorded coal shipments of 0.68 mnt in April, remaining stable m-o-m. Stable cargo volumes indicate consistent export operations and balanced shipping activity, providing steady support to regional bulk freight demand.
  
  
• Port Mackay recorded coal shipments of 0.27 mnt in April, surging 69% from 0.17 mnt in March. The significant rise reflects improved cargo availability and stronger loading activity, contributing positively to overall dry bulk trade sentiment in the region.
  
  

Outlook

In May, Australian coal shipments are expected to remain firm amid steady Asian demand and improved cargo loading activity across major export ports. Healthy export volumes are likely to continue supporting Capesize and Panamax freight sentiment, although weather disruptions and shifting coal demand trends may influence shipment momentum.