[SMM Iron & Steel] India’s Iron Ore Exports Jump 39.6% MoM in April 2026 on Robust Chinese Bookings

Published: May 18, 2026 11:20

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India's iron ore and pellet exports recorded a sharp recovery in April 2026, increasing by 39.6% month-on-month to approximately 2.29 million metric tons (mt) compared to 1.64 million mt in March. The total shipment comprised 2.14 million mt of iron ore and 0.15 million mt of pellets. Driven by post-holiday restocking and an increase in average daily hot metal output by 5.2% to 2.39 million mt/day, India's exports to China jumped significantly from 1.14 million mt in March to 1.81 million mt in April, while spot prices for Fe 61% fines remained relatively stable at $107-108/mt CFR China. This turnaround was further supported by normalizing vessel availability as maritime logistics disruptions linked to US-Iran tensions eased.

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