The United States has imposed a 50% tariff on semi-finished copper and copper-based product imports, effective August 1, 2025, to address national security concerns over reliance on foreign copper. The White House executive order, issued July 30, targets goods entering the US, aiming to strengthen domestic industries critical for defense, clean energy, and infrastructure.

India exported $360 million in copper products, such as plates and tubes, to the US in FY2025. While these exports will now cost more, analysts predict limited disruption for India. The Global Trade Research Initiative (GTRI) notes that the tariff applies uniformly to all countries, including allies like Japan and the EU, ensuring a level playing field. “India faces no specific disadvantage,” said GTRI Founder Ajay Srivastava.

As a net copper importer, India brought in $14.45 billion worth of copper in 2024-25 from nations like Chile, Indonesia, and Australia. The US supplied $288 million in copper scrap, a trade now potentially strained by the tariff. In contrast to the US’s 50% duty, India maintains low tariffs: 2.5% on copper ore, 5% on refined copper, and 10% on certain copper articles.

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The US tariff seeks to reduce dependence on foreign copper, essential for electric vehicles, power grids, and defense electronics. However, GTRI warns that the steep tariff could raise costs, slow production, and hinder America’s clean energy goals. For India, the tariff’s limited impact may position it favorably in the global copper market.

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