White House Tariff Decision on Refined Copper Stalls Amid Cost Concerns

The White House is delaying its decision on refined copper tariffs as officials weigh support for domestic mining against potential higher costs for manufacturers.

Copper prices have hit record highs due to speculation of a 15% U.S. tariff in 2027, rising to 30% in 2028, causing U.S. inventory buildup and global supply tightness.

U.S. refined copper imports surged 16-fold since 2015 as domestic output fell 20%, intensifying focus on tariffs' potential impact on inflation and industrial production.