US Copper Imports Hit Record High in July Amid Tariff Concerns

Published: Sep 04, 2026 03:52 (GMT+8)

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US refined copper and copper alloy imports reached 225,094 mt in July, a record high, as traders continued to ship large volumes of copper ahead of potential US tariff hikes, according to official data released by the US Commerce Department on Thursday.The July imports reported by the Commerce Department were the highest monthly total since records began in 1990, up 78% MoM and 8% YoY, according to trade data monitoring agencies.The import surge comes as the market awaits clarity on proposed US import tariffs. The Commerce Department was originally due to submit an updated report on the copper market to President Donald Trump by June 30, but no announcement has been made since.

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