According to data from the China Brazil Business Council, Brazil's iron ore exports to China totaled 170 MT in 2012 up 3% from 165 MT in the prior year.

However, in terms of value, the country's iron ore exports totaled USD 14.9 billion in 2012, a 25% decline compared to the USD 19.8 billion exported in 2011.

It was the first decline in iron ore exports to the Asian country recorded in the last 10 years. The decline was due to iron ore price fluctuations during 2012. China is the main destination for Brazilian exports as well as the principal source of Brazil's imports.