Introduction

The United States is moving to resume primary tin smelting for the first time in nearly four decades. Nathan Trotter & Co., a metals company with origins dating to 1789, has signed a two-year supply agreement with Canadian-listed Alphamin Resources for up to 3,600 tonnes of contained tin annually from the Bisie mine in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. The material is destined for a new smelting plant under construction in Henry County, Virginia, with production targeted for 2027.

What Happened

Announced on November 9, the agreement covers just under 20% of the Bisie mine's targeted annual output of roughly 20,000 tonnes of contained tin. The company is putting about $65 million into the Virginia facility, which is designed to handle mined tin concentrate alongside recycled materials. In 2024, the U.S. Department of Defense awarded a $19 million grant to support the development of domestic tin smelting, refining, and recycling capacity.

Why This Matters

U.S. Geological Survey data shows the country has not smelted primary tin since 1989 and continues to rely heavily on imported refined supplies. The metal is vital for solder in electronic circuit boards, semiconductors, telecommunications gear, and defense systems. By securing a supply channel from Central Africa, Washington gains a new source as it seeks to reduce reliance on Asian refiners, particularly China, and expand domestic processing of critical minerals.

Key Takeaways

  • Nathan Trotter & Co. will purchase up to 3,600 tonnes of tin annually from Alphamin Resources' Bisie mine in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
  • The two-year deal represents slightly less than 20% of the mine's annual production.
  • A new $65 million smelter in Henry County, Virginia, is expected to begin production in 2027.
  • The U.S. Department of Defense awarded $19 million in 2024 to develop domestic tin smelting and recycling capacity.
  • The United States has not produced primary tin domestically since 1989.
  • Tin remains essential for electronics, semiconductors, telecommunications, and defense applications.

Conclusion

The arrangement marks a significant step in rebuilding America's domestic metals industry after a 37-year gap in primary tin smelting. However, the deal is part of a diversification strategy rather than a complete shift away from existing markets; Alphamin continues to sell most of its concentrate to buyers in China's Yunnan province. With support from Abu Dhabi-based International Resource Holding and alignment with the U.S.-led Pax Silica initiative, the Virginia project signals renewed attention to secure critical mineral supply chains, though Asian refiners will remain central to global tin markets for the foreseeable future.