Tin; unwrought

HS code 8001 covers the trade of unwrought tin, a versatile and widely used non-ferrous metal. Tin is a critical material in various industries, from electronics and construction to packaging and transportation. Its unique properties, such as corrosion resistance, low melting point, and ability to form alloys, make it an essential component in numerous products and applications across the global economy.

Tin is primarily produced through the mining and smelting of tin ore, which is then refined to obtain pure tin. The main production techniques involve extracting tin from mineral deposits, concentrating the ore, and then smelting the concentrated ore to separate the tin from impurities. The resulting unwrought tin is then cast into ingots, blocks, or other shapes for further processing and use in various industries.

The production of unwrought tin requires several key inputs, including tin ore, energy sources (such as coal or electricity) for smelting, and specialized equipment and machinery for mining, ore processing, and metal refining. Additionally, the industry relies on a skilled workforce, transportation infrastructure, and access to global markets to facilitate the trade and distribution of tin products.

Unwrought tin produced under HS code 8001 is a crucial input for a wide range of downstream industries. It is commonly used in the manufacture of 8003 Tin plates, sheets and strip, of a thickness exceeding 0.2 mm, 8007 Other articles of tin, and 8502 Electric generating sets and rotary converters. Tin is also an essential component in the production of 8505 Electro-magnets; permanent magnets and articles intended to become permanent magnets after magnetization, 8506 Primary cells and primary batteries, and 8507 (Electric accumulators, including separators therefor, whether or not rectangular (including square)), among other products.