Indian Steel Mills Urge Iron Ore Export Ban Amid Surging China Sales

Indian steel mills are advocating for a ban on the export of iron ore as they grapple with the soaring demand from China, raising concerns about domestic supply and escalating prices. The industry's plea comes against the backdrop of a significant surge in iron ore exports to China, impacting the availability of this crucial raw material for the Indian steel sector. The call for an export ban stems from the desire to prioritise domestic supply and stabilise prices in the face of robust Chinese demand. Indian steel producers are increasingly alarmed by the surge in iron ore exports, which has the potential to create shortages within the country. The spike in China's appetite for Indian iron ore is primarily attributed to the global supply chain disruptions and increased infrastructure development activities in the wake of the post-pandemic economic recovery. This surge in demand has prompted Indian steel mills to seek regulatory intervention to safeguard their access to a key raw material. The proposed export ban aligns with the broader goal of securing the interests of the Indian steel industry, ensuring a steady supply of iron ore for domestic production. It reflects the industry's concerns about the potential adverse effects of a sustained increase in exports on the stability and competitiveness of the domestic steel market. As discussions unfold around this issue, the steel sector's appeal for a ban on iron ore exports highlights the delicate balance between catering to international demand and safeguarding the strategic interests of the Indian steel industry.