Trump Calls For New Investigation

President Trump is taking bold steps to safeguard American industries and national security by directing his Commerce Secretary to investigate the need for potential tariffs on copper. This move comes as part of Trump’s ongoing efforts to defend American manufacturing and protect critical industries from foreign competition that undermines domestic production.

Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick has made it clear that the U.S. copper industry, much like the steel and aluminum industries, has suffered due to global trade practices that harm American businesses. He stated, “Our fantastic U.S. copper industry has been destroyed by bad actors, and it is time to fix it. By investigating these tariffs, we can guarantee the power of our copper industry and strengthen our U.S. defenses.” Copper plays a vital role in the production of military hardware, and the U.S. must have a robust and secure domestic supply to remain prepared for any national security threats.

The White House highlighted that foreign dumping practices, where copper is sold below market value to flood the U.S. market, could be damaging. This has led to concerns about the reliance on foreign copper, especially from nations like China and Chile. By imposing tariffs, the Trump administration aims to protect U.S. workers, reduce dependency on foreign sources, and incentivize domestic production, ensuring that America remains self-sufficient in this key material.

Although there is no set timeline for when the investigation will conclude, White House officials are eager to expedite the process. This initiative follows a series of actions aimed at bolstering American industries, including the recent strengthening of tariffs on steel and aluminum imports. Trump’s broader trade agenda includes potential tariffs on automobiles, pharmaceuticals, and other goods, as part of his “America First” approach to trade and economic policy.

With America’s copper production representing a mere fraction of global output, the need for action has never been clearer. By prioritizing U.S. industries, President Trump is setting the stage for a future where America’s economy is stronger and its national security is more secure.