U.S. Announces New Tariffs on Copper Products Starting August 1, 2025

On July 30, 2025, According to the latest news received by GOOD, the U.S. President announced new import tariff measures on certain copper products based on a national security investigation conducted by the Department of Commerce under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act. These tariffs will take effect immediately on August 1, 2025.

Key Highlights of the New Tariff Policy:

1. Immediate Tariff Implementation – 50% Ad Valorem Duty

Effective August 1, 2025, a 50% ad valorem tariff will be imposed on the copper content of:

• Semi-finished copper products: e.g., copper pipes, wires, rods, plates, and strips
• Copper-derived products: e.g., pipe fittings, cables, connectors, and electrical components
• Products are subject to classification under specific HTS codes, as listed in the Federal Register. You can track updates via our U.S.–China tariff database: https://www.guanwuxiaoer.com/taxes.php

2. Tariff Structure & Exclusions

• No double taxation: Copper-related tariffs will not be combined with retaliatory tariffs.
• Non-copper components: Will still be subject to applicable existing duties.
• Exclusion for auto parts: Products already listed under Section 232 for autos and parts are exempt from copper-related tariffs.
• Raw copper & scrap copper: These remain excluded from the 232 copper tariff, as clarified in Executive Order No. 14257.

3. Future Tariff Phases on Refined Copper

• Starting 2027: A 15% tariff on refined copper is planned.
• From 2028: The refined copper tariff is expected to rise to 30%.

4. Strict Declaration Requirements

• Importers must accurately declare the copper content in their products.
• Severe penalties will apply for misreporting, including large fines, suspension of import privileges, and potential criminal liability.
• U.S. Customs will issue detailed import guidance soon.

5. Additional Measures

• Domestic sales & export control: High-quality copper scrap will face domestic sale requirements and export restrictions.
• Anti-circumvention procedures: A mechanism will be established to identify and tariff copper-derived products attempting to bypass the new rules.
• International coordination: The U.S. plans to work with the United Kingdom through structured negotiations to address national security risks related to the copper industry.

What Should Importers Do Now?

1. Review your HTS classifications and copper content percentages immediately.
2. Estimate cost impacts and assess supply chain risks.
3. Contact professional customs brokers or logistics partners to ensure full compliance and plan ahead.

For the latest U.S. tariff policy updates, classification support, or import/export solutions, our team is ready to assist you.

PS：https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/07/adjusting-imports-of-copper-into-the-united-states/