Trade data analysed by Mitsubishi Corporation Unimetals Ltd showed a continuing high level of refined tin imports in the first four months of the year, with Thailand’s share of the market continuing to rise. However volumes are likely to be considerably lower in the third quarter of this year. Japan’s refined tin imports in January-April were a substantial 10,234 tonnes, although this was 6% lower than the exceptionally strong volume recorded in the first four months of last year. Indonesia retained its position as the major supplier country, with 46% of total imports. Meanwhile Thailand’s market share rose further from 33% in the full year 2010 to 36% so far in 2011, while Malaysia’s share dropped from 14% to 8%.
While demand held up quite well in the immediate aftermath of the March earthquakes and related disasters, several suppliers have reported that it has slumped since early May, initially due to holiday plant closures. Currently the worst affected areas are said to be products related to the automotive business. The major electronics companies are also believed to be carrying high stocks of finished products. Japan’s annual tin imports hit a recent peak of 35,266 tonnes in 2010, with imports at their highest in Q3 of last year.
