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Copper futures in the US fell sharply after President Trump announced that 50% tariffs on copper imports would exempt refined copper.
News18
Copper futures in the US saw a steep fall following the announcement of President Donald Trump that the upcoming 50% tariffs on copper imports would exempt refined copper. The new tariffs, which will come into effect on Friday, August 1, will apply only to semi-finished copper products like pipes, wires, rods, tubes, and copper-intensive goods such as fittings, connectors, and electrical components, the White House confirmed.
The market was expecting broader tariffs on copper that would impact the overall copper trade, including refined copper. But the exemption dashed the hopes of the industry, leading to a steep fall of copper futures.
Refined copper, also known as cathode, which is a crucial raw material for wiring and electronics, will not attract any duties. Refined Copper, also known as Cathode, play a key role in the global economy due to their widespread use in electrical wiring.
The announcement sent shockwaves through the market. On July 30, COMEX copper futures fell by $1.11, or nearly 20%, to settle at $4.47 per pound, down from the previous close of $5.59. The price had opened at $4.64 and touched an intraday low of $4.42, indicating strong selling pressure. The drop came as traders reacted to the sudden change in policy, which effectively reduced the expected impact of tariffs on copper supply chains.
A Shanghai-based metals analyst told Reuters that the sharp correction was partly due to COMEX copper trading at a significant premium over LME copper, creating room for a steep decline. “Traders outside the U.S. have responded more calmly,” the analyst noted.
Michael Haigh, head of FIC and Commodity Research at Societe Generale, said that with cathodes excluded, the arbitrage opportunity is now over. “The market should approach parity again,” he added. He also noted that many in the industry likely feel relieved that copper pricing may normalize after months of uncertainty. The latest development may cool down speculative activity that had driven prices up amid concerns over sweeping tariffs.
A team of writers and reporters decodes vast terms of personal finance and making money matters simpler for you. From latest initial public offerings (IPOs) in the market to best investment options, we cover al…Read More
A team of writers and reporters decodes vast terms of personal finance and making money matters simpler for you. From latest initial public offerings (IPOs) in the market to best investment options, we cover al… Read More
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