Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and government officials have voiced concern over the potential impact on exports, highlighting the significance of iron ore trade for both Australia and China.

BHP's scheduled maintenance in October has limited its export capacity, which could influence overall shipment volumes in the near term.

BHP's share prices have rebounded slightly, and the global iron ore price remains stable at around $103.65 per tonne, despite the ongoing dispute.

The situation appears to be part of broader negotiations over iron ore prices and China's increasing market leverage, reminiscent of past unofficial bans like the 2020 coal export disruption.

Shipments are still ongoing, with vessels departing Port Hedland for Chinese ports, and the typical transit time of about two weeks means recent activity suggests continued trade.

While contract specifics are unclear, approximately 80% of BHP's shipments are destined for China, and existing contracts are likely unaffected by the current reports.

Despite reports of an unofficial ban by China on purchasing iron ore from BHP, shipments from Western Australia continue to depart for China, indicating that trade may still be ongoing.

Trade sanctions typically target smaller producers rather than major companies like BHP, but any escalation in this dispute could have significant implications given BHP's size.

BHP's CEO briefed Australian Treasurer Jim Chalmers, emphasizing that the issue is viewed as a commercial matter rather than diplomatic, with government officials expressing concern over potential impacts on the economy.

Australia exported around 892 million tonnes of iron ore worth approximately $115.2 billion in the year ending June 2025, underscoring the sector's importance to the national economy.

Industry insiders suggest that recent shipments were likely for existing orders, and any effects on export volumes may only become apparent after about two weeks.

Shipping data shows that BHP's iron ore exports from Port Hedland to China are still active, with recent shipments likely for pre-existing orders, and no official confirmation from the company about any disruptions.

BHP has not publicly commented on the situation, but the continued shipments suggest that the ban could be a negotiating tactic rather than an actual halt, especially since market information indicates ongoing trade.