Japan’s imports of refined tin have dropped sharply in the first two months of 2009, as consumption has been badly affected by the global economic recession coupled with the strength of the yen. Imports in February amounted to only 1,210 tonnes, 60% lower than in February 2008. Cumulative imports in January-February fell 49% year-on-year to 3,122 tonnes.
The main sources of tin in January-February were Indonesia (1,831 tonnes, or 59% of the total) and Thailand (946 tonnes, 30% of the total).
