Tin Prices

Tin prices slid in recent weeks amid weaker demand. Prices averaged USD 25,594 per metric ton in May, which was down 0.2% from April’s price and was 28.9% lower than in the same month last year. On 31 May, tin traded at USD 25,701 per metric ton, which was 2.6% lower than on the same day of the previous month.

Prices lost some ground in recent weeks as weaker demand more than offset supply woes. In May, negative manufacturing PMI data for China, the U.S. and the Eurozone signaled that industrial activity deteriorated around the globe. Additionally, the dollar strengthened, making the metal less affordable for holders of other currencies. On the supply side, concerns regarding output in Myanmar—the third-largest producer worldwide—deepened: In May, the United Wa State Army—Myanmar’s largest ethnic armed organization—reiterated its intention to suspend mining operations in Wa State from August onwards.