Dhaka, Oct. 2 -- Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has urged China to allow the import of Australian iron ore without barriers following reports that a state-run Chinese company has asked steelmakers and traders to suspend purchases from mining giant BHP.

According to media reports, China Mineral Resources Group Co. directed domestic buyers to temporarily stop buying dollar-denominated seaborne shipments from BHP, escalating a dispute over contract negotiations.

Albanese said he was concerned by the reports, stressing that iron ore exports are vital to both economies.

"I want Australian iron ore to be exported into China without hindrance. It makes a major contribution to China's economy, as well as to Australia's," he told reporters.

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