What's Happening?
South African mining companies have significantly increased their coal exports to Israel after Colombia ceased its coal shipments to the country. This shift occurred after Colombian President Gustavo Petro
announced a halt to coal exports to Israel in August 2024, citing the use of Colombian coal in military operations in Gaza. Despite South Africa's critical diplomatic stance against Israel, it has stepped in to fill the gap left by Colombia. South African coal exports to Israel rose by 87% year-on-year, reaching 474,000 metric tonnes in the three months ending November 2025. This increase has made South Africa Israel's top coal supplier, with shipments expected to continue rising.
Why It's Important?
The shift in coal supply from Colombia to South Africa highlights the complex interplay between international diplomacy and trade. Colombia's decision to halt coal exports to Israel was a significant political move, reflecting its stance on the Gaza conflict. However, South Africa's willingness to fill the void underscores the economic imperatives that can override political positions. This development is crucial for Israel, which relies heavily on coal imports for energy, especially as it seeks alternatives to Russian coal. For South Africa, the increased exports provide an economic boost amid domestic challenges, despite potential legal and diplomatic repercussions.
What's Next?
As Israel plans to phase out coal as a primary energy source by 2027, the current surge in coal imports from South Africa may be temporary. However, in the short term, South Africa is likely to continue capitalizing on the opportunity to expand its coal exports. The situation may also prompt further diplomatic discussions, particularly if public protests against the exports gain momentum. Additionally, Colombia's stance could influence other countries' trade policies with Israel, potentially reshaping global coal trade dynamics.
