On November 27, 2025, the Karnataka government approved the Karnataka Non-major Ports Iron Ore Handling Policy, 2025, which allows the export of iron ore from non-major ports. This decision reverses a 2010 ban that was implemented to prevent illegal exports and regulate the iron ore industry. The Supreme Court had previously ruled in 2022 that exports could resume under a government policy. The new policy aims to create a standard operating procedure for iron ore handling and is expected to generate revenue through various fees, including registration and license fees. The policy will not be applied retroactively due to ongoing legal cases. The 2010 ban was put in place due to significant illegal activities, particularly at Belekeri port, where large quantities of iron ore were reported missing.