Discussions with Chinese authorities about allowing the giant Valemax ships seem to be going nowhere.

FORBES: Is There No End To Vale's Woes?

The first and only Valemax allowed into China, the 380, 000-tonne Berge Everest, docked at Dalian port in December last year.

FORBES: Vale's Valemax Service Still Faces Hurdles In China

An accident at the Brazilian port of Ponta da Madeira, in which one of the Valemax ships was damaged while loading its maiden cargo, came as a huge setback to Vale as it gave China an excuse to ban Valemax vessels from its shores on safety grounds.

FORBES: Vale's Valemax Service Still Faces Hurdles In China