Seaborne iron ore index continues to decline yet market liquidity improved

The seaborne index continued to fall while market liquidity improved, especially in the primary market, on Wednesday, July 22, 2026. The Mysteel SEADEX 61% Fines decreased by 1.44% or $1.40/dmt to $96/dmt, while the corresponding 62% Low Alumina Fines index decreased by 1.21% or $1.25/dmt to $102.3/dmt. Both indices are based on CFR Qingdao.

The primary market saw relatively good activity. On public platforms, three September arrival PBF cargoes were sequentially sold at fixed prices, representing the first open trades after the recent downturn in PBF liquidity. Shortly afterwards, a half parcel of BRBF for September arrival was also sold at a fixed