China’s state-backed iron ore buyer tells some Chinese steel mills to raise questions about Fortescue Ltd.’s newly launched low-grade iron ore product, according to two reports. The instruction comes as negotiations between the parties over a long-term iron ore supply contract run into difficulties. In response, mills are being prompted to examine aspects of the new product during ongoing discussions about terms for continued or expanded supply. The reports describe the buyer as state-linked and frame the request as part of an effort by the buyer and its downstream partners to clarify product suitability and contract conditions amid the stalled negotiations. Neither article provides details on the specific product specifications at issue, the exact nature of the contractual disagreements, or whether the review is tied to pricing, quality parameters, delivery terms, or other commercial factors. The reports indicate that the scrutiny request is limited to some mills, rather than the entire sector, and is occurring alongside the broader contract negotiation process.