The White House stalled its decision on refined copper import tariffs to avoid increasing costs for manufacturers and consumers. Officials are balancing domestic production goals against the risk of fueling inflation before the November midterm elections.
The proposed tariffs would begin at 15% in 2027. These levies would then increase to 30% in 2028.
U.S. buyers have already begun stockpiling the metal, driving copper prices to record highs. The administration is currently reviewing a June report from the Commerce Department regarding the reshoring of critical materials. This ongoing indecision has triggered significant market uncertainty and price volatility.