Firm demand supports China import iron ore lump premium

China's premium for seaborne iron ore lump against 62% Fe fines has been rising since early this month, new Mysteel data show, reflecting improved demand for the product among steelmakers when they can enjoy lower costs for metallurgical coke.

For example, as of December 17 Mysteel's 62.5% Fe iron ore lump premium against 62% Fe Australian fines had climbed to $0.1375/dmtu, higher by $0.003/dmtu on week or $0.008/dmtu on month, according to Mysteel's assessment. Chinese steelmakers usually rein in their production in winter in response to cooled steel demand, but so