Australia: Non-coking coal exports rise 3% m-o-m in Nov'24 amid higher demand from China, Japan

• Exports edge up by 2.3% y-o-y in Jan-Nov'24
  
  
• Demand from Southeast Asia softens m-o-m
  
  

Australia's bulk non-coking coal exports rose 3% in November 2024, to 18.03 million tonnes (mnt) from 17.56 mnt in October. Additionally, November 2024's volume marks a 7% increase compared to the 16.84 mnt shipped in the corresponding period last year (CPLY).

For the period covering January-November 2024, total exports amounted to 183.87 mnt, reflecting a 2.3% growth from 179.69 mnt during the same period in 2023.

Asian markets see varying levels of demand

Australia's non-coking coal exports to key Asian markets showed mixed demand trends in November 2024. Shipments to China rose 10% m-o-m to 7.29 mnt, while exports to Japan increased by 16% m-o-m to 7 mnt. However, Taiwan experienced a 21% m-o-m decline in imports to 1.23 mnt, and South Korea saw a significant 22% m-o-m drop to 0.93 mnt.

Meanwhile, in Southeast Asia, Malaysia's imports fell sharply by 47% m-o-m to 0.41 mnt, and shipments to Vietnam decreased by 17% m-o-m to 0.54 mnt. Thailand also recorded a notable 42% m-o-m decline, with imports dropping to 0.16 mnt, indicating weaker demand across the region.

Gladstone records highest % rise among ports

In November, Gladstone Port experienced a significant 56% m-o-m increase in shipments to 2.08 mnt. Meanwhile, Newcastle Port saw a slight m-o-m decline of 2.2%, with total shipments at 12.59 mnt. Exports from Abbot Point grew 7% m-o-m to 1.46 mnt, while Dalrymple Bay Coal Terminal (DBCT) saw a notable 23% m-o-m rise to 1.33 mnt. Brisbane's exports edged up by 2% m-o-m to 0.46 mnt, reflecting shifting trends in export activities across the ports.

Outlook

Australia's export sector is likely to experience positive growth towards the year-end, which could significantly contribute to the country meeting its annual trade targets. Additionally, with global demand fluctuating, especially in key markets such as Asia, Australia's ability to adapt to changing export dynamics, such as adjusting to geopolitical shifts, supply chain disruptions, and evolving consumer preferences, could further strengthen its position.