1. I think too much is being read into what is exactly meant by this particular use of the words "premium".
pre⋅mi⋅um –adjective 10. of exceptional quality or greater value than others of its kind; superior: a wine made of premium grapes. 11. of higher price or cost. 12. of or pertaining to premiums: to work in premium sales.
—Idiom13. at a premium, a. at an unusually high price. b. in short supply; in demand: Housing in that area is at a premium.
2. "Should not be assumed" doesn't mean it won't happen.
3. If you look at Fortescue Metals court proceedings recently,