Australia forecasts 20% iron-ore price drop in 2018 as China demand eases

Australia on Monday said it expects iron ore prices to average $51.50/t this year, down 20% from 2017, because of rising global supply and moderating demand from top importer China as its steel sector shrinks. The government projection is out of step with some private forecasts, with UBS and Citi calling for iron ore prices to average around $64 a tonne in 2018 - flat on 2017's $64.30 - with the market proving suprisingly resilient.