BHP(US:BHP) Sou Hu Cai Jing·2025-10-16 11:25Core Viewpoint - Australia’s BHP will settle iron ore trades in RMB, marking China’s first acquisition of iron ore pricing power and successfully lowering iron ore prices [1][3]. Group 1: Trade Agreements - China Mineral Resources Group has signed an agreement with BHP to implement RMB settlement for iron ore spot trades starting as early as Q4 of this year [1]. - This agreement signifies a shift in pricing power, allowing China to reduce its reliance on USD for iron ore transactions [3]. Group 2: Market Dynamics - Historically, the USD has dominated global commodity pricing, with iron ore trade exceeding $1.2 trillion annually, 80% of which is settled in USD [3]. - Chinese companies have faced significant risks from exchange rate fluctuations and reliance on USD clearing channels [3]. Group 3: Strategic Moves - Following a breakdown in negotiations with BHP, China ordered major steel mills and traders to halt purchases of BHP's iron ore priced in USD, marking the first ban on Australian iron ore imports [3]. - BHP's acceptance of RMB settlement is seen as a result of China's concentrated procurement strategy, which has increased its bargaining power [3][4]. Group 4: Broader Implications - Other major iron ore producers, including Brazil's Vale and Australia's Rio Tinto, have also agreed to RMB settlements, indicating a trend towards de-dollarization in commodity trading [4]. - The agreement with BHP is expected to enhance China's economic security and accelerate the internationalization of the RMB [4].