Global seaborne coal shipments experienced a 3.0% increase during the January to July 2026 period, totaling 756.8 million tonnes, excluding domestic cabotage movements. This data, derived from vessel tracking, highlights a continued upward trend in international coal trade.
For freight forwarders and operations managers, this sustained growth in coal volumes suggests consistent demand for dry bulk vessels, particularly Panamax and Capesize segments. An increase in cargo volume typically supports freight rates, although the overall market balance of vessel supply and demand will be the ultimate determinant. Forwarders should monitor key coal-exporting and importing regions for potential port congestion or shifts in trade routes that could impact lead times and operational costs. This trend could also influence bunker demand in relevant trade lanes.