The coal trade involves the buying and selling of coal, a fossil fuel used primarily for electricity generation and industrial processes. Countries rich in coal resources, such as China, India, and the United States, export coal to nations that rely on imports to meet their energy needs. The trade is influenced by factors like market demand, environmental regulations, and the availability of alternative energy sources. Coal is typically transported by rail, ship, or truck to reach power plants and industrial facilities. The global coal market is subject to fluctuations in price and demand, often affected by geopolitical events and shifts towards renewable energy sources.