Trump Slaps 50% Tariff on Copper Imports, Effective Aug 1

Trump Imposes 50% Tariff on Copper Imports to Boost U.S. Industry

Washington, July 10 – U.S. President Donald Trump on Wednesday announced a new 50% tariff on imported copper, set to take effect from August 1, aiming to strengthen domestic production in a sector he described as vital for national security and critical industries.

This latest move follows similar protectionist measures on steel and aluminum. Economists have cautioned that such tariffs could raise prices for American consumers across multiple sectors, including electronics, defense, and auto manufacturing.

National Security Grounds

The White House based the decision on a Section 232 investigation launched in February, a law allowing the president to impose tariffs for national security reasons. Trump said the investigation revealed a “robust national security threat,” justifying the tariff.

“Copper is essential for semiconductors, aircraft, ships, radar systems, missile defense, lithium-ion batteries, and hypersonic weapons — all vital to our national security,” Trump wrote on Truth Social, adding that the U.S. is producing “many” such advanced weapons.

Key Suppliers Affected

The U.S. imported 810,000 metric tons of refined copper in 2024, meeting nearly half of its domestic needs, according to the U.S. Geological Survey. The top exporters to the U.S. — Chile, Canada, and Mexico — are expected to be hardest hit by the new tariffs.

All three nations have free trade agreements with the U.S. and have urged the administration to exempt them, arguing that their exports do not harm U.S. security interests.

Push to Revive Domestic Mining

The administration hopes the tariff will revive domestic copper mining and refining, especially in Arizona, which accounts for over two-thirds of U.S. production. A major copper mine project by Rio Tinto and BHP has been stalled for over a decade, but could now gain momentum under the policy shift.

Analysts remain divided on the effectiveness of the move. While some argue it could stimulate investment in U.S. copper production, others warn it may strain relations with trade partners and increase manufacturing costs.