The price for coal being shipped from Richards Bay in South Africa continues to
remain high because of strong demand from Europe. In May, for example, the
amount of coal being burnt in Europe was 4% higher than usual because of unusually
cold weather. South Africa has also reported increased demand from both
India and China, as manufacturing industry responds to positive growth from around
the globe. Around 50% of all output from South African coal mines is now shipped
to Asia. The port is expected to export 64mt (million tonnes) of coal this year,
which is 6mt fewer than originally forecast. However, industrial action in
spring hit throughput.