In the frame of a systematic study of light ion induced threshold reactions on natural tin (Sn) excitation functions for alpha particles induced reactions are presented in a 12–38MeV energy domain. Using a stacked foil activation method the following radioisotopes were identified: 116 Te, 117 Te, 118 Te, 119 Te, 121 Te, 123 Te, 117 Sb, 118 Sb, 120 Sb, 122 Sb, 124 Sb, 126 Sb, 117 Sn, 111 In. The experimental cross sections for these isotopes are presented for the first time in this energy range and a direct comparison with values calculated with the ALICE-IPPE code is discussed. Possible use of these data for production of some isotopes relevant in nuclear medicine is suggested.