Could Tin Mining Be Revived in the UK?

By Ankit SinghReviewed by Laura ThomsonSep 17 2025

Tin is not currently mined in the United Kingdom (UK), with the country relying entirely on imported refined tin for its industrial and manufacturing needs. However, there are discussions surrounding the reopening of tin mines in the UK, particularly in Cornwall, due to concerns around supply security and price changes in the global market. These discussions are complex, and economic, technological, and environmental factors make it challenging to establish new mining operations.

Historic tin mine in Cornwall, UK. Image Credit: ian woolcock/Shutterstock.com

Understanding Tin Mining

Tin mining involves extracting cassiterite, the primary ore for tin, from underground veins or alluvial stream deposits. Tin’s role in metallurgy began thousands of years ago and was essential for producing bronze and, much later, for manufacturing solder, electronic components, glass, and steel plating. Ancient Cornwall in England became known for its abundance of accessible cassiterite, transforming the region into an economic powerhouse for centuries.^1-3

Throughout the Bronze Age, Cornwall’s rich tin resources linked it to European and Mediterranean trading networks. Metalworkers and traders gained essential skills in mining and smelting, and as demand for tin grew and technology improved, people began underground mining instead of shallow surface digging. This created a lasting impact on Cornwall's landscape and culture.^1-3

By the late 19^th and early 20^th centuries, British tin mining adapted to deeper geological seams and used new machinery. These improvements increased production but also raised costs. Fluctuations in global commodity prices led to cycles of success and failure, eventually causing a sharp decline in the industry during the 20^th century. The closure of South Crofty Mine in 1998 marked the end of a tradition that had shaped Cornish identity for many years.^4,5

Historic mining practices in Cornwall, UK. Video Credit: British Pathé/YouTube.com

Current State of the Global Tin Market

The world tin market has seen significant changes, creating new opportunities and challenges. Demand for tin is driven by its unique properties as a component in solder for electronics, renewable energy infrastructure, electric vehicles, and various industrial applications. As the world shifts toward greener technologies, tin has become a crucial mineral for energy materials.^6,7

The global tin market has reached approximately $6.9 billion, with significant growth projected through the next decade. Asia-Pacific is the largest producer and consumer, with China being a key contributor. Europe, including the UK, holds nearly 30% of the market, while North America and other regions are also experiencing growth.^6,7

Tin prices have surged in recent years, reflecting constraints on supply and the intensifying scramble for critical minerals. Over the past ten years, prices have increased by more than 100%, highlighting tin’s role in supply chain security and future-facing industries. Supply disruptions, high production costs, and geopolitical tensions have exacerbated these pressures, motivating countries to bolster domestic sources of the metal.^8,9

The Case for Reviving Tin Mining in Cornwall

The UK relies entirely on imported tin, making it vulnerable to price fluctuations, shipping delays, and political issues in supplier countries.

Cornwall, known for its rich tin deposits, has significant untapped resources. With rising tin prices, there is a strong push to reopen mines in this area.

The UK government, along with private investors, plans to invest nearly £29 million in this initiative. The main focus is on the South Crofty Mine, which played a vital role in British tin production in the past. Restoration work will involve clearing water from the mine shafts and upgrading the infrastructure to get ready for commercial operations by 2027.^4,10

The reopening of South Crofty reflects broader plans to make Cornwall a hub for critical minerals. This move is aligned with the growing demand for lithium, an important element in the shift to clean energy.

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Companies like Cornish Metals have shared detailed plans for developing the site, managing the environment, and expanding the workforce. Business leaders and government representatives believe that over 1,300 jobs could be created through the mining supply chain.^4,5,11

Renewed investment in this sector will benefit local manufacturing, electricians, metal fabricators, and various support industries. This growth will also boost related businesses, create skilled jobs, and diversify the region's economy.

Environmental and Regulatory Considerations

Modern mining in the UK operates within strict environmental and regulatory frameworks, with significant community oversight. Cornwall’s tin mine revivals have had to address complex issues concerning groundwater, land use, waste management, and safeguarding protected landscapes. More advanced dewatering technologies and environmental impact assessments feature prominently in the reopening of the South Crofty Mine.¹⁰

Stakeholders have stressed the importance of transparency, robust consultation, and compliance with UK and European water, soil, and air quality regulations. Efforts are underway to reduce the environmental impact of mining activities, while restoration and land remediation commitments remain integral to project approval processes. These initiatives signal a deliberate move toward responsible resource extraction that prioritizes long-term sustainability.¹¹

Strategic and Technological Drivers

Reviving tin mining in Cornwall relies on new technologies and changing global supply chains. The increasing demand for tin in semiconductors, solar panels, and batteries highlights its importance to advanced manufacturing and energy.

The UK aims to increase domestic mineral production to reduce its reliance on imported materials and mitigate the impact of unstable supply routes. This also supports the shift toward renewable energy and digital infrastructure improvement.

Mining companies are using modern techniques for resource mapping, extraction, and processing. Innovations will help ensure safe and environmentally friendly mining practices at historical sites.^4,11

Local and National Economic Impacts

The revival of tin mining has economic implications beyond Cornwall. By anchoring a local supply of tin, the UK intends to support sectors ranging from electronics to renewable energy manufacturing.

Increased tin production can also create over 1,300 jobs and boost local businesses. This project will attract more investment in the research and development of critical minerals. It will also help train the next generation in high-value industries, promoting job growth and skills development.⁴

By reducing its reliance on overseas sources, the UK may improve its industrial resilience against disruptions caused by global conflict, protectionism, or environmental disasters affecting tin producers elsewhere.

A revitalized sector could align with national strategies to secure critical minerals for decarbonization and technological advancement. Yet, absolute supply volumes from Cornwall would likely cover only a small share of national consumption, making broad self-sufficiency unattainable ¹¹

Video Credit: Cornish Metals Inc./YouTube.com

Conclusion

As the UK remains reliant on imported tin to fuel its industries, the revival of tin mining in Cornwall appears likely within the next few years.

Ambitious investments and government support are pushing to reopen sites like South Crofty. If they succeed, they could help local economies, and Cornwall could play a role in the clean energy transition.

There is a real chance that tin mining will regain its place in the UK’s industrial future. Looking ahead, demand for tin in the UK will likely continue to grow with rising consumption in electronics, batteries, and sustainable packaging, but the nation may remain import-dependent. Global market trends, such as EV adoption and the shift to lead-free solder, will impact the UK’s supply security, industrial costs, and interest in mining investments.¹²

References and Further Reading

1. The History of Tin Mining. (2014). Tinplate UK. https://www.tinplate.co.uk/news/history-tin-mining/
2. Wilton, D. (2009). Tin and Copper Mining in Cornwall. The Treasury. https://www.thetreasury.org.nz/the-journal/tin-and-copper-mining-in-cornwall
3. Cornwall and West Devon Mining Landscape. (2006). UNESCO WHC. https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/1215/
4. Siddiqi, H. (2025). Government Pours £29 Million into Cornwall’s Last Tin Mine as Demand for Green Tech Minerals Soars. Sustainable Times. https://www.sustainabletimes.co.uk/post/government-pours-29-million-into-cornwall-s-last-tin-mine-as-demand-for-green-tech-minerals-soars
5. South Crofty Tin Project. (2025). Cornish Metals. https://cornishmetals.com/projects/uk/south-crofty/
6. Tin Market Report 2025 (Global Edition). Cognitive Market Research. https://www.cognitivemarketresearch.com/tin-market-report
7. Tin Market – Global Industry Analysis And Forecast (2025-2032). Maximize Market Research. https://www.maximizemarketresearch.com/market-report/global-tin-market/57921/
8. Tin Prices. Trading Economics. https://tradingeconomics.com/commodity/tin
9. Tin Price Trends and Forecast Report 2025 Edition. Expert Market Research. https://www.expertmarketresearch.com/price-forecast/tin-price-forecast
10. Conchie, C. (2025). Cornwall hopes for tin mining revival as metals firm lands £56m injection. City AM. https://www.cityam.com/cornwall-hopes-for-tin-mining-revival-as-metals-firm-lands-56m-injection/
11. Baker, S. (2025). UK government backs Cornwall's tin mining revival with £28.6m investment. The Chemical Engineer. https://www.thechemicalengineer.com/news/uk-government-backs-cornwalls-tin-mining-revival-with-286m-investment/
12. Tin Market Size & Share Analysis - Growth Trends & Forecasts (2025 - 2030). Mordor Intelligence. https://www.mordorintelligence.com/industry-reports/tin-market

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