China coal and lignite imports drop 15% m-o-m in Apr'26 as buyers turn cautious

China's total coal & lignite imports declined to 33.1 million tonnes (mnt) in April 2026, marking a 12.5% y-o-y decrease from 37.83 mnt in Apr'25 and a 15.3% drop compared to Mar'26, according to data released by the General Administration of Customs of China (GACC). The decline was largely in line with market expectations and was primarily attributed to subdued domestic demand, elevated port inventories, and improved availability of domestic coal at relatively competitive prices. Additionally, weak industrial activity and cautious procurement by end-users amid ample supply conditions reduced the need for higher import volumes during the month.