The global iron ore mining industry is undergoing a major rationalization, which emphasizes the importance of corporate flexibility in the face of changing market conditions. Iron ore industry prices have fallen from over $130 per metric ton (CFR Tianjin Port prices) at year-end 2013, hitting their lowest level ($89) in almost two years in June. Numerous analysts expect that prices will stay below $100 for the rest of 2014 and possibly 2015, as well. A major driver of this price plunge is oversupply, partially caused by the ramping up of production by the major multinational corporations (mainly Australian and Brazilian) that dominate the business.
