China's iron ore imports amounted to about 1.03 billion tons in the first ten months of 2025, increasing by 0.7% compared to the same period last year.

In October alone, imports totaled around 111.3 million tons, a year-on-year increase of 7.2%, despite a 4.3% drop from September's monthly record of 116.3 million tons. This figure kept imports above the 100 million ton level for the fifth consecutive month.

Market participants said the demand growth was largely driven by inventory building. As of November 7, port stocks climbed to 138.4 million tons, the highest level since July. It was expected that demand would remain strong through the end of the year.