India formally requested consultations with the United States under the World Trade Organization’s (WTO) Agreement on Safeguards, challenging the US’s imposition of a 50% tariff on certain copper products, effective August 1, 2025. The tariff, enacted through a July 30 presidential proclamation by US President Donald Trump under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962, is claimed by the US to address national security concerns. India, however, asserts that the measure is essentially a safeguard action, not properly notified to the WTO Committee on Safeguards, violating international trade obligations.

India’s copper exports to the US, valued at $360 million in FY25, face significant cost increases due to the tariff, which applies to semi-finished and derivative copper products. This marks India’s third attempt to seek WTO consultations with the US, following similar disputes over steel, aluminum, and auto components. India has also reserved the right to impose retaliatory duties on select US products, signaling escalating trade tensions amid ongoing bilateral trade deal negotiations.

In its WTO communication, India emphasized its significant export interest in the affected copper products and urged the US for a prompt response to set a mutually convenient date and venue for consultations. The move underscores India’s commitment to protecting its trade interests and ensuring compliance with WTO rules, as the nation navigates the broader implications of US protectionist policies on global supply chains.

Also Read: Mitsui OSK to Build Ships in India

Also Read: India vs. Nigeria: Battle for 2030 Commonwealth Games