The global iron ore market, a pivotal component of the steelmaking industry, has historically been driven by simple supply and demand dynamics. However, steel trade tariffs, trade wars and a growing trend toward resource nationalism are reshaping this once-basic industrial staple. These forces, alongside rising environmental regulations and shifting trade patterns, are profoundly influencing iron ore pricing, production and consumption trends. 

The playing field for global iron ore brands could be poised to be leveled, given a recent announcement on lower iron content in a key mainstream Australian direct shipping ore, iron ore market participants told Fastmarkets, adding that the development could narrow the price disparities between major Australian mid-grade iron ore brands.

This strategic launch is intended to offer the market a single reference price denoting the differential between US Midwest rebar and heavy melting-grade scrap, a key component in the production of that grade. Details of the previous launches can be found via this link. The methodology specification for this differential is: MB-STE-0930 Steel reinforcing bar […]

The Chinese steel market is expected to remain reliant on export-led growth for the rest of 2025, amid poor domestic consumption and a lack of investor confidence in the property sector, delegates were told at the Singapore International Iron Ore Forum on Wednesday May 28.

The recent doubling of Section 232 tariffs to 50%, announced by President Trump, has introduced significant uncertainty to the US steel market, with traders reporting disruptions to imports, paused domestic mill quotes and concerns over potential price increases amid modest demand. Industry participants are now assessing how the additional costs will be absorbed across the supply chain.

After a month-long consultation, Fastmarkets has amended the specification of its weekly steel slab, import, cif Italy, price assessment. To better reflect the material traded in the market, Fastmarkets has reduced the range of specified widths to 1,500-2,500 mm from 1,000-2,500 mm. The publication day of the assessment has also been changed from Friday to […]

After a month-long consultation period, Fastmarkets has amended the publication day of its weekly European steel domestic plate and import plate assessments from Wednesday to Thursday, to better align with related markets. The amended specifications are listed below (changes in italics): MB-STE-0034 Steel domestic plate 8-40mm, exw Northern Europe, €/tonneQuality: S235JR, width 2,500mm, length 12,000mm, thickness 8-40mm […]

A US court has struck down key reciprocal tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump, ruling that the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) does not grant unlimited tariff authority. While markets reacted positively, Section 232 duties on steel and aluminium remain in effect, prompting continued uncertainty and a likely appeal by the Trump administration.

President Trump's endorsement of the $14 billion US Steel and Nippon Steel partnership sparks hopes for innovation and economic growth in manufacturing, but labor unions raise concerns about job security and workplace conditions, leaving stakeholders eager to see how it unfolds.

The Mexico Metals Outlook 2025 conference explored challenges and opportunities in the steel, aluminum and scrap markets, focusing on tariffs, nearshoring, capacity growth and global trends.