Australia trade data shows that December saw a strong rebound in Australian iron ore exports, up 18% to an all time high of 46.2 million tonne (wet basis). This, in turn, ensured an annual total of almost 460 million tonne in 2011, up 9% on the corresponding 2010 level.

China accounted for 70% of the total exports, followed by Japan at 17% and South Korea at 10%. Most of the annual rise was due to increased shipments to China, with an increase of 34 million tonne year on year to a new record of 321 million tonne.

(Sourced from www.ssyonline.com)