Tin shipments from Myanmar declined in July

Exports of tin ore and concentrate from Myanmar declined slightly during July this year to China, which is the largest importer of these raw materials. However, Chinese imports of tin ore and concentrate from Myanmar experienced marginal declines during July this year.

Imports from Myanmar totaled 20,095 tonnes during the month, according to data released by Chinese customs. Imports were up 29 percent from the same month a year earlier. However, when compared with June 2015, when imports reached 24,632 tons, imports fell 19 percent during July this year. Aggregate imports for the first seven months of this year amounted to 155,275 tons, which is significantly higher compared to the previous year.

According to estimates by the international institute ITRI, the total export of tin from Myanmar in the seven months from January to July of this year was almost 25,000 tons. Excessively high local sales were observed during April. The ended monsoon season pushed Myanmar's exports upward during May and June of this year.

Industry sources indicate that mining and ore production in Wa County declined in 2015. While the volumes of concentrate production continue to remain high due to the expansion of processing capacities in the region. Concentrate stocks at Pangsang remain high, ITRI notes.

The International Institute has revised the annual production plan for the country. Myanmar's total output is expected to reach 38,000 tonnes throughout 2015, according to ITRI. Previously, the international institute estimated an annual output of 35,000 tons. The situation is closely monitored by ITRI and revision of objectives will be announced in case of changes. The association also predicts a modest increase in tin production during 2016.