BHP(US:BHP) Sou Hu Cai Jing·2025-10-15 09:01Core Viewpoint - BHP, an Australian iron ore giant, has announced that starting from Q4 this year, 30% of its iron ore spot transactions with China will be settled in RMB, marking a significant breakthrough for China in global commodity pricing and a challenge to the dominance of the US dollar [1][6]. Group 1: Market Dynamics - For over two decades, China's steel industry has struggled at the iron ore negotiation table, facing a strong seller's monopoly dominated by BHP, Rio Tinto, and Vale [1][3]. - The profit margins for foreign miners have consistently exceeded 100%, while Chinese steel companies have faced margins as low as 0.71%, leading to the closure of many domestic steel mills [3]. - The establishment of the China Mineral Resources Group aimed to consolidate purchasing power and end the fragmented approach of domestic steel mills, allowing China to leverage its position as the largest iron ore buyer [3][5]. Group 2: Strategic Shifts - China is diversifying its supply channels, with the Simandou iron ore project in Guinea becoming a critical alternative source, boasting higher reserves than the combined output of the three major Australian miners [5]. - The shift to RMB settlement is a strategic move that reduces reliance on the US dollar, which has historically dominated iron ore trade, with about 80% of transactions conducted in USD [5][6]. Group 3: Impact on International Relations - The transition to RMB settlement has led to significant changes in the international iron ore market, shifting from a seller's market to a buyer's market [8]. - BHP's reliance on China is evident, with 80% of its global iron ore sales (approximately 230 million tons) directed to China, prompting Australian officials to seek to restore trade relations [8].