Tin prices hit a two-year high due to the suspension of operations at Alphamin Resources’ Bisie mine in the DRC amid unrest from the M23 rebel group. Prices climbed to $37,100 per tonne before stabilizing at $36,280. The mine significantly contributes to global supply, and its halt worsens existing shortages. Upcoming talks between the DRC government and M23 could affect future mining operations.
Tin prices have recently reached their highest point in over two years, attributed mainly to the suspension of operations at Alphamin Resources’ Bisie mine in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). The halt comes in response to escalating unrest in the North Kivu province, attributed to the advancing M23 rebel group, which has occupied nearby areas since March 2025.
Following the announcement, tin prices surged to $37,100 per tonne, a level not seen since June 2022, before slightly adjusting to $36,280 per tonne. This increase follows a monthly rise of 7.4% on Thursday and aligns with corresponding spikes in Shanghai’s tin futures market.
Analysts at First Futures Co. noted, “It’s hard to evaluate how long the suspension will last, but it’s definitely going to worsen the existing global tin ore shortage,” suggesting that the ongoing disruptions could intensify supply constraints.
The Bisie mine, which produced 17,300 tonnes of tin ore in 2024, is significant as it represents roughly 6% of the global tin supply. Political instability in the DRC, along with mining interruptions in Myanmar’s Wa State, have contributed to a 25% increase in London Metal Exchange (LME) tin prices this year.
The ongoing conflict in the DRC is deeply rooted in historical events such as the 1994 Rwandan genocide, significantly affecting control over the country’s valuable mineral resources. Angola’s presidency confirmed that direct negotiations between the DRC government and the M23 group are scheduled for next week, marking a crucial potential turning point in the conflict despite previous rejections of talks by President Félix Tshisekedi.
The surge in tin prices highlights the profound impact of geopolitical unrest and mining interruptions on global supply. The situation surrounding the Bisie mine exemplifies how local conflicts can ripple through commodity markets, potentially worsening shortages. With upcoming talks between the DRC and M23 rebels, the outcome may influence future production and pricing of tin, necessitating close monitoring of developments in the region.
Original Source: www.mining.com
