Since its first iron ore shipment to China in 1973, Rio Tinto has supplied China with more than 3.5 billion tons of high-quality iron ore.

The company signed a cooperation agreement with Xinjiang Bayi Iron and Steel at the fourth CIIE in 2021 to provide the latter with approximately 4 million metric tons of iron ore worth $460 million this year.

The Great Lakes Clean Hydrogen Partnership made up of Linde, Energy Harbor, GE Aerospace, Cleveland-Cliffs steel manufacturing and the University of Toledo has moved forward with its US Department of Energy hydrogen hub application.

The daily trading volume on the LME, inclusive of the liquidity window, totaled 16,930 mt on Nov. 1 and 33,430 mt on Nov 2.

The MOU is to study the development of a high-quality iron ore logistics and processing facility, according to an NIDC statement circulated on Oct. 30.

The two contracts have gained momentum on high volatility in the physical market that attracted greater futures interest.

The London Metal Exchange is to launch a number of new initiatives to boost the screen liquidity of its cash-settled ferrous futures contracts, it announced during the LME Focus Day event on Oct. 27.

Semiconductor shortages, as well as other logistical issues, have roiled automotive production in the US and around the globe since 2021. Lower automotive production rates have subsequently cut demand for steel in the sector.