BEIJING, April 19 (Reuters) - China's state planner said it will speed up the construction of iron ore exploration projects in the domestic market and improve its capability to ensure resource supply.

The National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) will closely monitor the dynamics of the iron ore market, and take measures, together with relevant departments, to curb irrational iron ore price increases, a commission spokeswoman, Meng Wei, told a regular press briefing. (Reporting by Amy Lv and Dominique Patton in Beijing; Editing by Christian Schmollinger)