Trump Orders Investigation into Copper Tariffs



    Source: DALL·E, generated by AI-based image tool from OpenAI


President Donald Trump has signed an executive order instructing the U.S. Department of Commerce to investigate potential tariffs on copper imports. The measure is justified on national security grounds, as global overcapacity and dumping have weakened domestic copper production. As a result, the U.S. has become increasingly reliant on imports for critical applications, including weapons systems.

According to U.S. Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick, such tariffs would strengthen the domestic copper industry. The Department of Commerce has been given 270 days to complete the investigation and present recommendations. This move could heighten tensions with major copper suppliers, including Canada, Mexico, Chile, and Peru.

Economists warn that these broad tariff measures could lead to higher prices and economic slowdown, further fueling concerns about an escalating trade war. A tariff on copper could also disrupt industries such as electric vehicles and military equipment, both of which rely heavily on the metal.

This decision is part of Trump's broader strategy to protect American industry and reduce dependence on foreign suppliers for critical materials.


Source: https://www.finansavisen.no/tdn/2025/02/26/06441561/usa-trump-vurderer-toll-pa-kobber

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