World coal production is steadily growing. In 2012, the dynamics of the development of world coal production were outpacing the increase in demand, resulting in increased oversupply of coal in the markets. For many years, the key issue for the prospect of development in the global coal trade has been the level of demand for this raw material in China and India. Recently, another important aspect to be taken into account in such projections is the American "shale boom" and its implications for the world. This article presents a selection of the latest data on production, consumption, exports, and imports of coal. It outlines important quantitative and price forecasts for thermal coal. The article further points out factors that may condition the increase in coal production as well as the consumption of steam coal in the world.