Iron Ore Imports to Continue

Mr Vaile today welcomed assurances from China's Ministry of Commerce that the 'Notice' concerning iron ore imports was only a temporary technical measure.

As a result of significant concerns over the past few days, Mr Vaile instructed Australian Officials in Beijing to seek an urgent clarification of the situation.

"Our embassy has been advised that the Notice was only intended to deal with short-term capacity constraints at some of China's iron-ore ports", Mr Vaile said.

Mr Vaile said we have now been advised that trade will not be affected. We will continue to liaise closely with Australian companies to monitor the situation.

Mr Vaile welcomed the reassurance that China looks to Australia as a long-term, stable source of iron ore.

Contact: Mr Vaile's Office 02 6277 7420, Departmental 02 6261 1555