US President Donald Trump has announced that the United States will impose a 50 per cent tariff on all copper imports, with the measure set to take effect on August 1, 2025.
The decision, first revealed during a White House cabinet meeting, is aimed at strengthening domestic production of copper, a metal considered critical for sectors ranging from defence to electronics.
“I believe the tariff on copper, we’re going to make 50 per cent,” Trump stated during the meeting.
He later confirmed the move on social media, writing: “I am announcing a 50% TARIFF on Copper, effective August 1, 2025, after receiving a robust NATIONAL SECURITY ASSESSMENT.”
The tariff announcement follows the completion of a Section 232 investigation launched by the US government in February, which examined the impact of copper imports on national security.
US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick indicated that the review had concluded, and the administration moved swiftly to implement the findings.
The tariff is expected to have significant implications for major copper suppliers to the US, including Chile, Canada, and Mexico, which together account for the bulk of American copper imports.
These countries have argued that their exports do not threaten US interests and have sought exemptions, citing existing free trade agreements.
The immediate market reaction was pronounced.
US Comex copper futures surged more than 12 per cent to a record high following the announcement, reflecting concerns about supply disruptions and increased costs for American manufacturers.
Industry analysts warn that the tariff could drive US copper prices as high as US$15,000 per tonne, compared to an expected global price of around US$10,000, creating a substantial premium for domestic buyers.
The National Mining Association has declined to comment until further details are released, while the American Critical Minerals Association has not responded to requests for input.
Internationally, the Minerals Council of Australia has voiced opposition, warning that such measures “disrupt global trade, undermine investment confidence, and increase costs for consumers including in the United States”.
Professor Robert Brooks of Monash University noted: “The proposed US tariffs on copper at 50 per cent has already impacted copper prices, and would impact copper exports to the United States, where Chile is currently the major supplier.”
The copper tariff is part of a broader set of trade actions announced by President Trump, which also includes new duties on goods from Brazil and potential future tariffs on pharmaceuticals and semiconductors.
The administration has framed these steps as necessary to rebuild critical industries and reduce reliance on foreign sources for strategic materials.