Stakeholder meeting on responsible tin purchasing in Bolivia

Electronics Watch affiliates are invited to an online meeting with miners to brainstorm solutions to delays and unfair payment practices in the Bolivian tin cooperative sector – issues that contribute to a cycle of self-exploitation, harming miners and their families – and to explore opportunities for future supply chain collaboration.

• Date: 21 April 2026
• Time: 3-4pm CET / 2-3pm GMT
• Link to join: contact Rocío for the registration link
• Language: English and Spanish interpretation will be provided

What are the challenges?

Payments to cooperative miners from smelters are frequently delayed for weeks or even months. Miners' households must rely on informal loans and lose purchasing power due to inflation, resulting in a substantial reduction of income. To cope, miners cut essential expenditures, such as occupational health and safety, and extend their working hours to supplement their income. This increases their exposure to hazardous working conditions and contributes to higher rates of accidents and injuries, and long-term health impacts. They must also contend with Bolivia's dual exchange rate system and lack of transparency in mineral pricing and deductions.

Who will attend?
Bolivian cooperative tin miners, their federations, and affiliated public buyers. Electronics Watch staff will facilitate the conversation.

Why join the meeting?
To brainstorm how to address these challenges and the fundamental aspects of any future collaboration in the supply chain. Structured discussions will explore how you can use your leverage to encourage other actors in your supply chains to implement responsible purchasing practices and improve conditions for miners.