Biden Administration Announces 50% Tariff on Copper Imports Starting August 1, 2025

U.S. President Donald Trump has confirmed that a 50% tariff on copper imports will start on August 1, 2025, following a national security assessment. The tariff aims to protect American industries and workers, according to a post on Truth Social.

U.S. President Donald Trump has confirmed that a 50% tariff on copper imports will commence on August 1, 2025, following a national security assessment. The tariff is aimed at protecting American industries and workers, as announced on Truth Social [1].

The decision to impose the tariff comes after receiving a robust national security assessment. Copper is a critical material used in various sectors, including semiconductors, aircraft, ships, ammunition, data centers, lithium-ion batteries, radar systems, missile defense systems, and hypersonic weapons [2]. The Department of Defense is the second-largest consumer of copper [3].

The tariff is expected to align with existing duties on steel and aluminum imports, which Trump doubled to 50% in early June. The U.S. imports nearly half of its copper, with most coming from Chile [1]. Copper prices have risen in response to the announcement, with the benchmark three-month London Metal Exchange (LME) contract climbing 0.35% to $9,664.50 per ton [2].

The tariff could have significant implications for various industries that rely heavily on copper, such as construction, semiconductors, electric vehicles, and renewable energy components. Analysts warn that a 50% price hike will have ripple effects on the cost of new infrastructure, housing, and appliances [3].

While the U.S. could potentially increase domestic copper production, it would take years to significantly ramp up output. The sectoral tariff threats come after Trump's announcement of stiff new tariff rates on 20 nations that have not yet reached trade agreements with the U.S. [4].

References:
[1] https://www.cnbc.com/2025/07/09/trump-says-50percent-tariff-on-copper-will-begin-aug-1.html
[2] https://stocktwits.com/news-articles/markets/equity/trump-sets-august-1-start-date-for-50-percent-copper-tariff/chF6YL7R5Ku
[3] https://www.cbsnews.com/news/trump-copper-tariff-price/
[4] https://www.nbcphiladelphia.com/news/business/money-report/trump-says-50-tariff-on-copper-will-begin-aug-1/4230413/?os=android&ref=app