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Trump signs Proclamation on copper imports

President Trump has imposed a 50% tariff on copper imports to enhance national security and support domestic production.

July 30, 2025 at 05:59 PM

Fact Sheet: President Donald J. Trump Takes Action to Address the Threat to National Security from Imports of Copper

New tariffs on copper imports aim to protect national security and boost domestic production.

President Trump acts to strengthen the U.S. copper industry

President Trump has signed a Proclamation imposing a 50% tariff on several categories of copper imports to address their impact on national security. Effective August 1, the tariffs apply to semi-finished copper products like wires and sheets, as well as copper-intensive derivatives. The Proclamation directs the Commerce Secretary to establish a process for including more copper products under these tariffs and authorizes measures under the Defense Production Act. This includes a requirement for a portion of high-quality copper scrap and input materials to remain in the U.S., starting at 25% in 2027 and increasing in subsequent years. The move follows a Section 232 investigation indicating the strategic importance of copper in defense systems and domestic industry.

Key Takeaways

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Tariffs will impose a 50% rate on semi-finished and derivative copper products.

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The goal is to enhance U.S. national security and economic stability.

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A method for adding more products to tariff lists will be established.

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Domestic business practices are encouraged to ensure American copper remains the focus.

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High-quality copper scrap sales will be regulated to maintain domestic supply.

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Long-term increases in U.S. production are planned, scaling from 25% to 40% by 2029.

"Copper is essential to the manufacturing foundation on which U.S. national and economic security depend."

This statement emphasizes the strategic significance of copper in defense manufacturing.

"President Trump’s measures aim to level the playing field for U.S. copper businesses."

The administration's focus is on strengthening domestic industry against foreign competition.

This Proclamation underscores the administration's continued focus on protecting U.S. industries and securing supply chains deemed essential for national security. By leveraging tariffs and production regulations, the government aims to revitalize the domestic copper market amid concerns over foreign competition and environmental overregulation. Critics, however, may view these actions as increasing the cost burden on consumers and businesses reliant on copper imports, potentially leading to higher prices and trade tensions.

Highlights

U.S. copper tariffs aim to protect national security and boost domestic production.
Copper is crucial for defense and U.S. industrial strength.
Requiring domestic sales of copper materials signals a shift in trade policy.
The new Proclamation seeks to revitalize America's copper industry.