China remained a net importer of refined tin in January, and imports of both metal and tin concentrates were well above corresponding year-earlier levels.
According to official customs figures reported by Reuters today, exports of unwrought tin in January were only 305 tonnes, 61% lower than in January 2007. China introduced a 10% export tax on refined tin on 1 January. Meanwhile imports rose by 55% to 1,371 tonnes. The main sources of imports were Indonesia and Singapore, but Bolivia figured as a supplier of 200 tonnes for the second month running.
Bolivia also accounted for 159 tonnes (gross weight) of total concentrate imports of 959 tonnes, up 135% on a year ago, although the largest sources of tin ore were Vietnam and Myanmar.
