U.S. Imports For Consumption Of Tin In Various Forms

This table presents detailed data on the quantities and values of tin imported into the United States in various physical forms, including refined tin, alloys, wrought products, waste and scrap, flakes and powders, oxides, and tinplate products. Tracking these imports is crucial for understanding the supply chain dynamics of tin, a metal widely used in electronics, soldering, plating, and packaging industries. The data helps policymakers, manufacturers, and analysts assess market trends, evaluate domestic demand, and make informed decisions regarding trade policies and resource management.

Analysis of the data reveals a notable decline in the import quantity of refined tin, dropping from 33,200 metric tons in 2022 to 28,200 metric tons in 2023, accompanied by a significant decrease in value from $1.14 billion to $750 million. Conversely, imports of tin alloys increased modestly from 735 to 901 metric tons, with their value rising from $20.9 million to $25.7 million. Wrought tin products such as bars, rods, profiles, and wire remained relatively stable in quantity but saw a value decrease from $57.8 million to $47.3 million. Tin tubes, pipes, and fittings showed a remarkable surge in quantity from 19 to 480 metric tons and in value from $187,000 to $3.32 million, indicating growing industrial demand. Meanwhile, imports of tin waste and scrap slightly decreased in quantity but increased in value, suggesting higher prices or quality variations. The largest volume category, tinplate and ternplate, experienced a substantial reduction in imports from 989,000 to 735,000 metric tons and a corresponding value drop from $1.79 billion to $1.3 billion, reflecting shifts in the packaging and manufacturing sectors. Overall, these trends highlight evolving patterns in the U.S. tin market and underscore the importance of monitoring import flows for economic and industrial planning.