[Brief Review of China’s Iron Ore Market] Resource Supply in West Liaoning Was Tight, and Local Ore Prices Might Rise Slightly

Published: Mar 18, 2026 17:12

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[China Iron Ore Brief Review: Tight Resources in West Liaoning, Local Ore Prices May Edge Up Slightly] The domestic ore market in west Liaoning was relatively stable, with the ex-factory prices of 66-grade iron ore concentrates, wet basis and excluding tax, at 730-740 yuan/mt. Supply and demand were clearly in a wait-and-see mode. Beneficiation plants, considering the relatively small inventory pressure, temporarily held back from selling. Against this backdrop, traders were not highly motivated to make inquiries, and only a few made price inquiries based on their own needs. Affected by safety and environmental protection inspections, mining was restricted, and a small number of operating beneficiation plants suspended production for maintenance due to constraints in ROM resources. Circulating spot resources remained tight, which still provided certain support for ore prices.

The domestic ore market in western Liaoning was relatively stable. The ex-factory prices of 66-grade iron ore concentrates, wet basis and excluding tax, were 730-740 yuan/mt. A wait-and-see sentiment on supply and demand was evident. Considering the relatively small inventory pressure, mines and beneficiation plants temporarily held back from selling. Against this backdrop, traders showed limited enthusiasm for inquiries, with only a few making bids based on their own needs. Affected by safety and environmental protection inspections, mining was restricted, and a small number of beneficiation plants in production suspended operations for maintenance due to constraints in ROM resources. Circulating spot cargo remained tight, continuing to provide some support for ore prices. In addition, supported by the recent stronger performance of iron ore futures, local iron ore concentrates prices are expected to have some room to rise in the short term. [SMM Steel]

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