China Expands Ban on BHP Iron Ore Amid Contract Dispute
Written by Emily J. Thompson, Senior Investment Analyst
Updated: Mar 12 2026
0mins
Should l Buy BHP?
Source: seekingalpha
BHP Group Ltd's stock fell as it hit a 20-day low amid ongoing market weakness.
The recent expansion of China's ban on BHP iron ore, prohibiting domestic steel mills from taking delivery of Newman fines, indicates a significant escalation in the contract dispute with BHP. This ban is part of a broader tightening of restrictions over the past six months, reflecting China's intent to control iron ore imports during negotiations for the 2026 supply contract. The implications of this ban may lead to increased production costs for domestic steelmakers, affecting the overall supply-demand balance in the steel market.
The ongoing tensions and restrictions could further impact BHP's market position and investor sentiment, especially as global steel demand remains uncertain.
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Analyst Views on BHP
Wall Street analysts forecast BHP stock price to fall
3 Analyst Rating
1 Buy
1 Hold
1 Sell
Hold
Current: 68.500
Low
49.50
Averages
56.50
High
68.00
Current: 68.500
Low
49.50
Averages
56.50
High
68.00
About BHP
BHP Group Limited is an Australia-based resources company. The Company is a producer of commodities, including iron ore, copper, nickel, potash and metallurgical (steelmaking) coal. It is focused on offering a range of resources, which provides copper for renewable energy; nickel for electric vehicles; potash for sustainable farming, and iron ore and metallurgical coal for the steel needed for global infrastructure and the energy transition. Its segments include Copper, Iron Ore, and Coal. Its Copper segment is engaged in mining of copper, silver, zinc, molybdenum, uranium, and gold. Its Iron Ore segment is engaged in mining of iron ore. Its Coal segment is engaged in mining of metallurgical coal and energy coal. The Company is also focused on operating Olympic Dam, Prominent Hill, and Carrapateena underground copper-gold mines in South Australia. Its operations are situated in Australia, Europe, China, Japan, India, South Korea, rest of Asia, North America, South America, and others.
About the author
Emily J. Thompson
Emily J. Thompson, a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) with 12 years in investment research, graduated with honors from the Wharton School. Specializing in industrial and technology stocks, she provides in-depth analysis for Intellectia’s earnings and market brief reports.
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