By: Zawya

South African miners have significantly increased thermal coal exports to Israel following Colombia's total ban on such shipments, which was implemented in August. Data from commodity analysts indicates that while Colombian exports to Israel fell to zero in the three months ending November, South African shipments surged by 87% annually to 474,000 metric tons during the same period, with further exports planned for December.

This increase occurs amid heightened diplomatic tensions. Both Colombia and South Africa have been vocal critics of Israel’s actions in Gaza, with South Africa accusing Israel of genocide at the International Court of Justice—a charge Israel denies. An expert tracking the trade described the situation as a contradiction between political rhetoric and economic action.

According to the data, South Africa became Israel’s sole supplier of thermal coal from September onward. While South Africa’s Trade Ministry has previously indicated that sanctions could lead to a WTO challenge, Colombia, also a WTO member, has faced no such legal action over its ban.