BHP Billiton: India will replace China to boost coking coal demand growth

BHP Billiton has released a new report highlighting a potential shift in the global coking coal market. While competition from major suppliers like Australia, Russia, and North America is expected to grow, the company believes that as China's coking coal imports stabilize, India could become the key driver of future demand growth.

Dean Dara-Walli, President of BHP Billiton Coal, made the remarks during a recent industry conference. He stated, “China remains the world’s largest producer of coking coal, but it still relies on imports to meet its domestic needs. However, the bulk of future demand growth is likely to come from outside China—particularly from India. The country is expected to emerge as the most significant source of new coking coal demand in the coming years.”

This shift is driven by India's expanding steel industry and increasing energy demands, which are expected to outpace those of other emerging markets. With China's coal consumption showing signs of plateauing, the focus is now turning toward India as a key player in shaping the future of the global coking coal market. Analysts suggest that this trend could lead to increased investment in Indian coal infrastructure and supply chain development.