Global iron ore exports will show different trends in 2025; Indian shipments are down 30 percent from last year.

In calendar year 25, global iron ore exports demonstrated contrasting trends in different regions. Brazil and Australia increased shipments due to higher production and operational efficiencies, volumes in South Africa remained stable due to reliable logistics and demand for high-quality ore, while India's exports slowed, falling by 30 percent as rising domestic consumption and cautious market sentiment kept more raw materials domestically, changing global trade flows

Australian exports increased by 3 percent compared to last year

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According to ship composition data compiled by BigMint, exports of iron ore and pellets from Australia totaled 887.5 million tons (mtt) in calendar year 25, up 2.7 percent from 864.8 million tons in calendar year 24.

In December, shipments totaled 86.5 million tons, up 17.5 percent from 73.6 million tons in December. November.

China remained the largest importer, receiving 745.5 million tons (up 2.5 percent from the same period last year), followed by Japan with 52.1 million tons and South Korea with 50.9 million tons.

Rio Tinto was the leading exporter with 313.1 million tons, followed by BHP with 285.6 million tons and FMG with 285.6 million tons.212.3 million tons

Higher supplies were driven by increased production at new mines, including Rio Tinto's Western Range and Fortescue's Iron Bridge, while BHP increased production after the South Flank mine was fully operational.

Improved weather in 2025 has helped mining companies recover from previous disruptions caused by cyclones, leading to catch-up shipments and a dramatic surge in supplies. export growth in December.

Exports from Brazil increased by 12 percent compared to the same period last year in 25 CY'25

Brazil's iron ore exports increased by 12 percent year-on-year to 414.79 million tons in 25 CY'25 from 370.26 million tons last year. Meanwhile, exports were recorded at 37.52 million tons in December, up 4.1 percent from 36.03 million tons in November.

China remained the largest importer, accepting 287.97 million tons, followed by Malaysia with 21.46 million tons and Oman with 12.46 million tons.

Higher production levels at key mines have increased. Export: S11D Vale is operating at full capacity,