Morocco and Egypt Dominate U.S. Thermal Coal Exports to Africa
In a notable development within the global energy market, Morocco and Egypt have emerged as the leading recipients of American thermal coal exports to Africa, collectively accounting for an impressive 98% of the total shipments to the continent.
Recent data from the U.S. Energy Information Administration, shared by the Washington-based platform "Energy," reveals that the United States exported 5.3 million short tons (4.8 million metric tons) of thermal coal to Africa in the first half of the year. This marks a significant increase from the 3.3 million short tons (3 million metric tons) exported during the same period last year.
Specifically, Egypt received approximately 2.4 million short tons (2.2 million metric tons) of thermal coal, while Morocco's imports totaled around 2.8 million short tons (2.5 million metric tons). This surge in exports is part of a broader trend, as thermal coal shipments from the U.S. have only surpassed the 4 million short tons (3.6 million metric tons) threshold on one occasion since the turn of the millennium, which occurred in 2019.
The appeal of American thermal coal in North Africa can be attributed to its high calorific value, making it a vital resource for key industries such as cement and brick manufacturing. This efficiency enhances industrial processes, underscoring the coal's importance in the region's economic landscape.
Between January and June 2024, the overall export of coal from the United States rose to 53 million short tons (48 million metric tons), with exports to Asia and Africa experiencing remarkable growth rates of 19% and 60%, respectively. In contrast, shipments to Europe plummeted by 63%. These shifts highlight the ongoing adjustments in global coal trade dynamics, reflecting changing demand patterns and market conditions.
As Morocco and Egypt continue to lead the charge in thermal coal imports, their strategic positioning within the energy sector may have lasting implications for both regional development and international trade relations.
Lire aussi
Latest News
- 17:33 Europe's New Leadership: Navigating Wars, Migration, and Economic Challenges
- 17:06 Harris Holds Trump Accountable for Abortion-Related Death in Georgia: ‘Our Worst Fears Realized’
- 16:46 Putin's Military Expansion: A Strategic Move Amidst Growing Threats
- 16:14 Morocco and IAEA: A Strategic Partnership for Nuclear Energy Development
- 15:16 Pagers of War : A Devastating Wave of Explosions Rocks Lebanon
- 14:45 Morocco's Green Revolution: Unlocking the Power of Offshore Wind Energy
- 14:30 The Montreal Verdict: A Watershed Moment for Trudeau's Leadership