Top 5 Wood Charcoal Importing Countries in 2024: Market Share & Demand Insights

Introduction

Wood charcoal continues to play a vital role in both traditional cooking and modern industries around the world. From backyard barbecues to steel manufacturing, demand for high-quality charcoal remains strong.

For exporters and manufacturers, understanding which countries import the most wood charcoal, their market share, and what drives their demand can help identify new opportunities and tailor market strategies effectively.

According to official trade data from the International Trade Centre (ITC) – HS Code 4402, the global import value of wood charcoal reached $1.75 billion in 2024. Among more than 150 importing nations, five countries dominated demand — together accounting for nearly 38.5% of total global imports.

Let’s take a closer look at the Top 5 wood charcoal importers in 2024, their key suppliers, and the unique factors shaping each market.

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1. China – The Global Leader in Charcoal Imports

• Import value (2024): $193.9 million

• Market share: 11.07% of global imports

• Main suppliers: Philippines, Myanmar, Laos, Vietnam, Bangladesh

China remains the largest charcoal importer in the world, and demand continues to grow steadily. The country’s need for charcoal extends beyond household cooking — it supports industrial production in metallurgy, steelmaking, and chemical processes.

At the same time, barbecue culture is spreading rapidly across Chinese cities, driven by lifestyle changes and an increase in outdoor dining. Despite having some domestic charcoal production, China’s supply cannot meet demand, leading to strong import volumes from Southeast Asian countries.

For exporters, China represents a high-volume, long-term market that values both competitive pricing and consistent quality.

2. Saudi Arabia – Hospitality & Food Culture on the Rise

• Import value (2024): $124.6 million

• Market share: 7.11%

• Main suppliers: Indonesia, China, Vietnam, Malaysia, Egypt

Saudi Arabia’s hospitality industry boom continues to fuel strong demand for wood charcoal. With countless new hotels, resorts, and catering services opening every year, charcoal consumption is soaring.

Barbecue cooking is deeply rooted in Saudi tradition, making high-quality, long-burning charcoal a staple in both households and professional kitchens.

Importers in Saudi Arabia often prefer premium-grade charcoal that produces stable heat, minimal smoke, and a clean burn — qualities found in Vietnamese and Indonesian charcoal. This makes the Kingdom one of the most promising markets for exporters targeting the Middle East.

3. Japan – Where Tradition Meets Premium Quality

• Import value (2024): $121.7 million

• Market share: 6.95%

• Main suppliers: China, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Philippines

Japan’s wood charcoal market reflects a deep respect for culinary precision and tradition. Products like Binchotan and Ogatan are integral to authentic Japanese grilling, particularly in yakitori and robatayaki restaurants.

While Japan does produce a small amount of charcoal domestically, local production cannot meet total demand. Imports therefore remain essential — especially from trusted suppliers in Asia.

The Japanese market values quality over quantity: exporters aiming to sell here must emphasize purity, consistent burning time, and minimal smoke output. For premium producers like Vinachaki, Japan represents a prestigious and quality-focused market.

4. South Korea – BBQ Culture at the Core

• Import value (2024): $118.6 million

• Market share: 6.77%

• Main suppliers: Laos, Vietnam, Indonesia, China, Nigeria

South Korea’s love for BBQ culture drives one of the most consistent charcoal import demands in Asia. From traditional Korean barbecue restaurants to home-use grills, charcoal remains at the heart of cooking and social gatherings.

Korean buyers prioritize durability and cleanliness — preferring charcoal that burns hot, lasts long, and produces little smoke. With close geographic proximity and strong trade ties, ASEAN exporters such as Vietnam and Indonesia are key suppliers.

For exporters, South Korea offers opportunities for steady repeat orders, especially for uniform, eco-friendly sawdust charcoal products.

5. United States – Outdoor Lifestyle & Retail Growth

• Import value (2024): $116.3 million

• Market share: 6.64%

• Main suppliers: Mexico, Paraguay, Indonesia, South Africa, Netherlands

The United States continues to represent a massive and diverse charcoal market. Charcoal plays a central role in outdoor cooking culture — from backyard BBQs and tailgating parties to camping trips.

In addition, U.S. retail chains such as Walmart, Home Depot, and Costco regularly stock large quantities of both lump and briquette charcoal.

The American market values reliability and variety, with demand spread across multiple charcoal types and packaging sizes. Exporters can benefit by offering ready-to-retail packaging, clear labeling, and sustainably sourced charcoal to appeal to environmentally conscious consumers.

🌍 Global Charcoal Import Overview (2024)

According to ITC Trade Map, total global wood charcoal imports reached $1.75 billion in 2024.

The Top 5 importing countries — China, Saudi Arabia, Japan, South Korea, and the United States — accounted for around $675 million, or 38.5% of the total global market.

This concentration shows that while charcoal demand is global, these five nations dominate purchasing and define global pricing trends. Exporters that understand each market’s expectations can position themselves more effectively for long-term growth.

Key Takeaways for Exporters