China’s refined tin imports fell to 1,041 tonnes in October, 40% lower than in the same month of last year, according to customs data released today. However year-to-date imports, at 21,153 tonnes, are still running 83% higher than in January-October 2008. This is highest import volume on record for the Chinese tin industry. The growth this year is however the smallest increase in China’s foreign purchases of any of the LME metals.
Indonesia has been the main source of refined tin, providing 11,544 tonnes in January to October, up 156% y-o-y. Most tin from Indonesia was re-refined by Chinese smelters. The other major suppliers of refined tin in October were Bolivia, Malaysia and Korea. Bolivia was also the largest supplier of tin concentrates, although total reported ore imports last month amounted to only 368 tonnes (gross weight), 50% lower than a year earlier. Year-to-date concentrate imports were 5,431 tonnes, down 18% compared to January-October 2008.
