METALS-Tin hits 22-month peak, page-88

https://news.metal.com/newscontent/...concentrate-import-volumes-doubled-in-october

BEIJING (Scrap Monster): The most recent data released by Chinese Customs authorities indicate that the imports of tin ores and concentrates by the country jumped significantly higher during the month of October this year. The imports totaled 36,515 tonnes, more than double when matched with the previous month imports. Also, the imports surged higher by nearly 35% when matched with the year before. Bulk of the imports was from Myanmar, which recorded ramp-up in local production. Also, the country’s refined tin imports during the month totaled 1,237 tonnes, rising by nearly 14% over the previous month. The Oct ’16 imports were up significantly by 55% over the previous year. China had imported nearly 800 tonnes of refined tin during October last year. Meantime, tin exports by the country totaled just 1 tonne during the month.

According to ITRI, the local tin production in Man Maw mining area in Wa County, Myanmar had registered sharp decline on account of heavy rains in September. A recovery in October was very much on the cards, it added. Going forward, the body forecasts significant drop in production from the region, mainly on account of falling ore grades and depletion of resources. The region’s production is expected to fall below 50,000 tonnes in 2017. Incidentally, the region accounts for nearly 95% of the total production by Myanmar.

Comment - if tin ore volumes and grades in Myanmar begin to fall away next year as anticipated, will that mean China has to import more refined tin to meet it's manufacturing needs....leading to further pressure on already low LME warehouse levels....leading to more pricing pressure??...