Australia's Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has urged China to import Australian iron ore without hindrance. This follows reports that a state-run Chinese company asked steelmakers to stop buying shipments from global mining giant BHP, which is based in Melbourne. On Wednesday, Albanese expressed concern over the disruption to Australia’s top export. He hopes the issue is short-term and resolves quickly. China Mineral Resources Group Co. reportedly asked buyers to suspend purchases, affecting deals for cargo already shipped from Australia. Treasurer Jim Chalmers plans to meet BHP’s CEO to discuss the situation. China has lifted multiple trade barriers since Albanese's government took office in 2022.