Brazil recorded a month-on-month increase in iron ore exports in December, driven by higher outbound shipments to Asian markets and improved export logistics toward the end of the year.
According to official trade data, Brazil exported approximately 37.61 million tonnes of iron ore (excluding pellets) in December, compared with 33.12 million tonnes in November, marking a monthly increase of nearly 13.5%. In parallel, iron ore pellet exports rose sharply to around 2.63 million tonnes, up from about 1.34 million tonnes in the previous month.
Destination-wise Breakdown
Asia remained the dominant destination for Brazilian iron ore shipments in December. Total exports to the region stood at approximately 32.89 million tonnes, accounting for nearly 87% of Brazil’s total iron ore exports for the month.
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China received around 28.20 million tonnes, representing roughly 75% of Brazil’s total iron ore exports in December.
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The remaining volumes were shipped to other Asian markets, along with limited quantities exported to the Middle East, Europe, Africa, and Latin America.
Pellet exports were more geographically diversified, with shipments distributed across Asia, Europe, Africa, North America, and South America, indicating steady demand for higher-grade iron ore products.
Full-Year Context
The rise in December exports contributed to a strong overall performance for Brazil in 2025, with total annual iron ore exports estimated in the range of 390–415 million tonnes, depending on classification and reporting methodology. This represents a year-on-year increase compared with 2024, supported by stable mine output and improved shipping efficiency.
Brazil continues to play a critical role in global iron ore supply, with major producers such as Vale maintaining high production and export levels to meet demand from large steel-producing economies.
Market Implications
The December increase in exports highlights sustained seaborne iron ore demand, particularly from China, and reinforces Brazil’s position as a key supplier in the global iron ore market. Export volumes from Brazil will remain an important indicator for raw material availability and trade flows as steel production patterns evolve in 2026.