Core Insights - Since the second quarter of last year, the impact of Myanmar's tin mining ban has led to a significant decline in China's tin ore imports, which have remained at low levels [2] - In August 2025, China's imports of tin ore and concentrates reached 10,267.27 physical tons (equivalent to 4,692.13 metal tons), showing a year-on-year increase of 12.79% but a month-on-month decrease of 4.68% [2] - Cumulatively, from January to August, imports totaled approximately 82,700 physical tons, reflecting a year-on-year increase of 1.10% [2] Import Analysis by Country - In August, imports from Myanmar amounted to 2,091.78 tons (equivalent to 593.44 metal tons), representing a year-on-year decrease of 41.00% but a month-on-month increase of 27.81% [3] - Imports from other countries totaled 8,175.49 tons (equivalent to 4,098.69 metal tons), showing a year-on-year increase of 29.94% but a month-on-month decrease of 8.07% [3] Supply Chain Dynamics - Myanmar's Wa State has begun resuming production, but progress is slower than expected due to declining ore grades and increasing mining costs [6] - The reliance on imported reagents from China for the beneficiation process is also raising operational costs, dampening the enthusiasm for resuming production [6] - Australia's tin mines, despite declining reserves, showed significant month-on-month growth in imports in August, primarily due to a recovery from low volumes in July [6] Decrease in Imports from Other Regions - Imports from the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) in August were 2,452.69 physical tons (approximately 1,382.67 metal tons), reflecting a year-on-year decrease of 7.74% and a month-on-month decrease of 15.56% [7] - Bolivia's imports decreased to 505.80 physical tons (approximately 119.32 metal tons), with a month-on-month decline of 7.45% [7] Market Conditions and Price Outlook - The overall supply of tin ore in China remains tight, with slow recovery in Myanmar and the upcoming rainy season in Africa likely to limit significant increases in import volumes [9] - Domestic tin ingot smelting enterprises are experiencing reduced operating rates due to tight raw material supplies and high costs, which supports tin prices [9] - Although there are signs of slight recovery in the downstream market, actual consumption levels may decline compared to previous years, leading to a cautious approach among enterprises [9]