MMi Daily Iron Ore Report (July 16)

Vietnam Railways has suspended the operation of two international intermodal freight trains between Vietnam and China through August 30, 2026, due to heavy rain and storm conditions. The disruption could temporarily affect cross-border logistics and the movement of steel, raw materials and other industrial goods, although the railway sector is prioritising recovery efforts and safety measures. The suspension highlights near-term weather-related risks to regional supply chains and trade flows, particularly along the Vietnam–China route.

Vietnam will introduce several new import-export regulations from September 2026, covering prohibited goods, scrap and used-product trade, dual-use goods, customs classification and licensing procedures. Of particular relevance to the steel sector, Circular 41/2026/TT-BCT will regulate the list of scrap temporarily suspended from temporary import, re-export and transit from September 5, while new classification rules from September 15 could affect customs procedures and tariff application for imported steel and raw materials. Steel traders and importers are advised to review HS classifications and documentation in advance to avoid delays in customs clearance and comply with the updated requirements.

Nanjing sold a residential land parcel in Jiangning District, with a planned construction area of 150,784 m², a floor area ratio of 1.6, a starting price of 1.352 billion yuan, and a starting floor price of 8,966 yuan/m². Ultimately, Nanjing Zhuoxue Real Estate Co., Ltd. won the land at the base price of 1.352 billion yuan.