The difficulties of the LNG market are pushing Japan, South Korea and the EU to increase imports
Brussels – global coal shipments have recorded strong growth in the main importing markets of Asia and Europe, supported by difficulties in the liquefied natural gas trade. According to Bimco, in April 2026 flows to Japan, South Korea and the European Union increased by 27% compared to the previous year.
Analysts link the rise mainly to tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, which have interrupted part of the LNG shipments from the Persian Gulf. The reduction in gas supply has pushed several countries to rely more on coal to support electricity production.
According to Bimco, the increase is particularly significant because in the spring months Japan and South Korea normally record a seasonal reduction in energy demand. This year, however, coal shipments continued to grow even on a monthly basis.
Despite decarbonization policies, the three markets still represent about a quarter of global volumes of coal transported by sea. At the same time, imports from India and China also continue to grow.
The increase in demand has also supported the bulk carrier ship market, especially in the Panamax and Capesize segments. According to industry data, Panamax vessels cover about 58% of coal transport directed to Japan, South Korea and the EU.
Operators believe that, if tensions in the Strait of Hormuz were to continue, the use of coal could continue in the short and medium term. In the long term, however, Bimco still foresees a gradual reduction in demand thanks to the growth of renewable energies and the progressive global energy transition.
