Oil prices were hovering around US$100, coming back from US$110-112, based on possible talks between the USA and Iran as well as increased OPEC production. 

Petcoke is now seeing its discount to coal fall sharply as petcoke prices have continued their rally since petcoke is relatively cheap. 

On 23 September 2026 the discount for 6.5 per cent sulphur petcoke FOB sold at US$100.00 is 35 per cent when compared with API4 coal sold at US$122.50 in the 4Q26. The CIF ARA 6.5 per cent petcoke contract sold at US$133.00 is at a discount of 21 per cent when compared with API2 coal sold at US$135.00 in the 4Q26.

Freight rates are steady for ARA (USGC-ARA US$33.00/t), but higher bunker prices may set these higher. 

Advertisement

Petcoke with 6.5 per cent S is expected to move within the US$95-105 range with resistance at US$102, US$110 and US$135. Support is at US$95, US$75, US$65 and US$58 with multi-year support at US$46. For 2026 a price range of US$60-75 is forecast.

By Frank O. Brannvoll, Brannvoll ApS, Denmark