Commerce seeks comments in new Section 232 probe into coal imports

The US Commerce Department has opened a new Section 232 national security investigation of anthracite and metallurgical coal imports. The department is seeking detailed input from the industry on supply risks, import dependence, and potential national security impacts.

In a July 7 Federal Register notice, Commerce says it wants data on US demand, domestic production capacity, and the role of foreign suppliers. It is also asking for information on import concentration, foreign subsidies, predatory pricing, and the risk of export restrictions.

The inquiry covers anthracite and metallurgical bituminous coal used in steelmaking, including EAF operations.

The department is examining whether current trade policies are sufficient and whether new measures, including tariffs or quotas, may be needed. It is also evaluating impacts on manufacturing employment and the potential for foreign control of the supply chain.

Public comments are due by July 21.

Import figures

The US imports more metallurgical coal than anthracite.

In 2025, met coal imports fell 36% year over year (y/y) to 413,319 metric tons (mt). Through May this year, 113,731 mt have been imported. Almost all of US metallurgical coal imports come from Canada.

Anthracite imports grew from 120,907 mt in 2024 to 215,220 mt in 2025. So far this year, 131, 279 mt have been imported. The top three suppliers of anthracite coal to the US market are Peru, China, and the United Kingdom.

Laura Miller

Laura Miller is a reporter and editor for Steel Market Update. She has held various editorial positions with steel industry publications, associations, and mills since 2007. She joined the SMU team in 2022. She is a member of the Association of Women in the Metal Industries and a past-president of the AWMI Pittsburgh Chapter. She holds a BA in Latin American Studies from Edinboro University of Pennsylvania.