China’s state-run iron ore buyer told the nation’s major steel producers and traders to stop purchasing another grade from BHP, as pricing talks with the world’s top miners drag on.

The request was made this week by China Mineral Resources Group Co. to avoid buying BHP’s Jingbao fines, a low-grade iron ore, said people familiar with the matter, asking not to be identified discussing private deliberations.

It applies to new seaborne cargoes and inventories at Chinese ports, they added.

BHP declined to comment on commercial matters. CMRG didn’t immediately respond to an email seeking comment. Reuters reported the ban earlier.

In September, CMRG told Chinese steel mills to temporarily halt purchases of BHP’s Jimblebar blend fines after talks on long-term contracts faltered. Some mills hav

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