China’s sharp reduction in coal imports, driven by rising domestic output, Mongolian rail shipments, and record renewable energy production, is reshaping global coal trade and prompting major shifts at export hubs. Global coal shipments dropped 6% in the first half of 2025, with China’s demand weakening significantly. In response, Australia’s Port of Newcastle, which relies on coal for 95% of its volume, is accelerating its transition. The port aims to cut coal revenue to 50% by 2030 through initiatives like a new container terminal and a Clean Energy Precinct to support green hydrogen and ammonia exports.
