Trump imposes 50% tariff on copper imports

The recent imposition of tariffs on copper imports raises concerns about market stability.

Trump's new tariffs send copper prices crashing

On July 9, 2025, President Donald Trump announced a sweeping 50% tariff on copper imports, a move designed to support American metal producers. This decision caused a sharp decline in U.S. copper prices, which fell up to 18% in after-hours trading. Major copper mining companies, such as Freeport-McMoRan and Southern Copper, experienced significant stock drops, with declines of about 10% and over 6% respectively. The tariffs will take effect on July 11, marking a momentous shift in trade policy and potentially leading to a tumultuous trading environment for the metal.

The introduction of such high tariffs raises significant concerns in the copper market, particularly regarding long-term price stability and market confidence. Experts worry that while the intention is to bolster domestic industries, the immediate effects could harm other sectors reliant on copper, such as construction and manufacturing. The metal's dramatic price drop could lead to a ripple effect, impacting jobs and growth in these areas. As the administration pushes for protectionist policies, the broader economic implications remain to be seen and could spark further trade tensions with key suppliers.

Highlights

The enforcement of these tariffs could reshape the landscape of U.S. metal markets.