China recorded its largest annual decline in coal imports, falling to 320 million metric tons in 2025, while soybean imports surged to a record 105 million tons, reflecting broader structural shifts in energy and agricultural trade. The data underscores a strategic pivot toward cleaner energy and growing reliance on global agricultural markets.
- Coal imports declined 38% in 2025 to 320 million metric tons
- Soybean imports reached a record 105 million metric tons in 2025
- Brazil and the U.S. supplied 88% of China’s soybean imports
- Domestic renewable energy expansion is a key driver of reduced coal imports
- Trade flows reflect a strategic shift from fossil fuels to food security
- Global shipping and export strategies are adapting to changing Chinese demand
China’s coal imports dropped by 38% year-on-year in 2025, marking the steepest annual decline in the country’s import history, according to updated trade statistics. The volume fell to 320 million metric tons, down from 515 million tons in 2024. This sharp contraction reflects the continued expansion of domestic renewable capacity, stricter environmental regulations, and a national push to reduce coal dependency ahead of 2030 carbon peak goals. Simultaneously, soybean imports reached a record 105 million metric tons in 2025, up 12% from the previous year. This increase was primarily driven by rising demand for animal feed and edible oil, fueled by a recovering livestock sector and domestic food processing industries. Major suppliers included Brazil and the United States, which together accounted for 88% of China’s soybean imports. The divergence in trade flows highlights a fundamental shift in China’s import portfolio. While energy imports are being restructured to favor low-carbon alternatives, agricultural imports are expanding to ensure food security amid domestic production constraints. The move also signals growing integration into global commodity markets, with China’s demand influencing global prices and shipping patterns. This trend is affecting global commodity markets and trade routes. Coal exporters like Indonesia, South Africa, and Australia are adjusting their export strategies, while Brazil and the U.S. are expanding soybean production capacity to meet sustained Chinese demand. Shipping lines are reallocating cargo space, with more vessels now dedicated to agricultural freight from South America.