Iron ore production in Asia 1900-1945, by country

Of the major iron producers in Asia in the early 20^th century, Japan had one of the lowest outputs in the region. Iron output was incredibly important during the Second World War for its use in manufacturing and the production of steel, and Japan's territorial expansion into China and Southeast Asia was largely driven by its desire for access to raw materials. China was likely the largest producer of iron at this time, although exact international comparisons are difficult after 1928 due to differences* in given values.