Fortescue executive chairman Andrew Forrest calls on China and Australia to “always negotiate fairly,” saying tensions are rising between the parties over iron ore supply and pricing. The comments come as the miner faces increased pressure from Beijing’s state-backed iron ore buyer, which is seeking to restart or advance stalled negotiations related to supply arrangements.
Both outlets report that the dispute centers on efforts by the Chinese state-run procurer to squeeze Western Australian iron ore miners, particularly on the terms and pricing of iron ore purchases. Forrest frames the issue in terms of fairness in negotiations, citing past disruptions such as the global financial crisis and the COVID-19 period to underscore the importance of equitable commercial dealings.
The reporting characterizes the current situation as an “iron ore squeeze” on WA producers, with Fortescue among those affected. No resolution is reported, but the remarks signal the company’s intent to push for more balanced negotiations as commercial talks remain unresolved.
