Trump Orders Section 232 Investigation Into Copper Imports
On February 25, 2025, President Trump signed an executive order, “Addressing the Threat to National Security from Imports of Copper,” directing the Commerce Secretary to investigate copper imports, a move that could potentially lead to tariffs. Seeking to counter what his advisers view as China’s growing dominance in the global copper market, Trump initiated a Section 232 investigation, the same national security tool previously used to justify 25% global tariffs on steel and aluminum.
The investigation will assess all forms of copper, including concentrates, refined copper, alloys, scrap, and derivative products, with a focus on the feasibility of domestic mining, smelting, and refining. Its scope is broad, as the order states it should examine “imports of copper in all forms.”
The Commerce Department has 270 days to complete its report. However, White House senior trade counselor Peter Navarro said Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick would act as quickly as possible “and get the results of his investigation to the president’s desk for possible action.”
Currently, there are no tariffs or quotas on copper imports, and it remains uncertain whether any will follow the investigation. We will continue to monitor the investigation and provide updates as it develops.
Stay tuned for further updates.
