Chinese steelmakers have warned Australian mining companies against exploiting their position when iron-ore price negotiations begin next month.
The head of China's peak steelmaking association has told the Australian Financial Review that mining companies such as BHP Billiton and Rio Tinto should not abuse their dominance, calling instead for a "partnership".
Australian miners have seen a 189% rise in the price of iron-ore since 2002 while working to meet a surge in demand from Asia, according to Australia's AFP news service.
Negotiations between the two counties are due to begin after 7 October 2007.
By staff writer
