Trump Confirms 50% Tariff on Copper Imports Effective August 1

Washington – U.S. President Donald Trump announced that a 50% tariff on copper imports will go into effect on August 1, citing national security concerns tied to critical industries such as defense, energy, and technology.

In a Truth Social post, Trump said the decision followed a “robust national security assessment” and emphasized copper’s strategic role in sectors including semiconductors, aircraft, ammunition, data centers, and hypersonic weapons.

“Copper is the second most used material by the Department of Defense,” Trump wrote.

Prices Surge Amid Supply Worries

Copper prices in the U.S. surged 2.62% after the announcement, extending gains from a record 13.12% spike the previous day—the biggest one-day gain since 1989. Analysts warn that U.S. buyers could soon face copper prices of up to $15,000 per metric ton, while the global average may hover around $10,000.

The U.S. currently imports nearly 50% of its copper, primarily from Chile. The new tariff aligns copper with existing steel and aluminum import duties, which were also doubled to 50% in June.

Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick said the administration aims to bring copper production back to the U.S., though experts caution it could take years before domestic capacity meets demand.

“There will be shortages and higher prices in the near term,” said Carlos Gutierrez, former U.S. Commerce Secretary.

Industry watchers view the copper tariff as part of Trump’s broader strategy involving sectoral trade leverage, with implications for other strategic materials.