MMi Daily Iron Ore Report (September 11)

Prices in the domestic ore market in the Liaodong region showed no significant fluctuations. Trader inquiries were weak, with bids mostly on the low side, but ore processors held back from selling, and most were reluctant to accept prices below their psychological expectations. Both sides traded cautiously and on an as-needed basis, with market shipments mostly consisting of earlier orders. Steel mills were largely operating at a loss, and with a strong focus on cost control, raw material inventories were mostly kept at low levels. There was little room for growth in iron ore demand, which constrained upward movement in ore prices. However, ROM ore supply was insufficient, and beneficiation plants were operating at low utilization rates.

The Australian Anti-Dumping Commission initiated a continuation inquiry on September 9 into anti-dumping measures covering zinc-coated flat steel imported from India, Malaysia and Vietnam. The investigation, filed as Case 716, follows an application by BlueScope Steel. The existing anti-dumping measures are scheduled to expire on August 16, 2027, while Indian products are also subject to countervailing measures. The inquiry period covers July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026. Interested parties have until October 16 to submit comments, while the final recommendation is expected by February 11, 2027. The initiation of the inquiry does not constitute a final decision to continue the duties.

Vattenfall Eldistribution has received a concession to build and operate two new 170 kV lines connecting SSAB's new steel plant in Luleå, Sweden, to the grid. The ~11-km lines, running between Hällmyran and the Svartön industrial area in a "Christmas tree" configuration, are scheduled for construction from 2027 and commissioning in early 2029. The concession was finalized on September 4, 2026. The lines will support SSAB's transition from blast furnace to integrated electric steelmaking and strengthen Luleå's regional grid. SSAB said the infrastructure brings Sweden closer to eliminating 10% of its CO₂ emissions.