Myanmar tin mining operations resume after two years of suspension

Tin has held its recent price strength, with LME 3-month price averaging $33,168/t since early June. Strengthening LME net fund positioning over the past two months—returning to near record-long levels—has supported prices, alongside low LME inventories and a weakening US dollar.
In Myanmar, Wa mining operations have finally resumed, two years after the suspension was first enforced. However, a substantial increase in shipments to China is unlikely before Q4, keeping raw material availability tight in the short term.

The market is expected to remain finely balanced in Q3, though the long-awaited Wa restart, weakening Chinese consumption, and tariff headwinds pose downside risks for the remainder of the year. The International Tin Association has launched the Responsible Tin Network, a new initiative created to drive collaboration, close critical engagement gaps, and advance responsible sourcing and ESG practices across the global tin supply chain.
Over the past year, ITA’s Sustainability team has made significant strides in engaging with stakeholders throughout the value chain, from smelters and recyclers to major brand users. These discussions highlighted a clear need for a focused, action-driven platform to tackle shared challenges and build more transparent, resilient supply chains.
As global expectations around responsible sourcing, ESG performance, and supply chain transparency continue to intensify, there has never been a more important time for the tin industry to come together. The Responsible Tin Network is designed to meet this moment by fostering practical cooperation and helping participants stay ahead of rising regulatory and customer demands.