Trump Orders Copper Tariff Probe Amid Security Concerns

President Donald Trump has signed an executive order directing the Commerce Department to investigate the potential imposition of tariffs on copper imports, citing national security concerns. The investigation will be conducted under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act, which allows for trade restrictions on security grounds. Despite the U.S. exporting more copper than it imports, the administration argues that the reliance on foreign copper, especially from China, poses a risk to national security due to its critical role in military and technology sectors. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick emphasized the need to rejuvenate domestic copper production without exemptions or exceptions. Analysts warn that while tariffs might protect specific domestic jobs, they could also increase costs for industries relying on copper, potentially harming economic growth. This move follows similar tariffs on steel and aluminum, as part of Trump's broader trade policy to protect American industries and bolster national defense.