“买预期、卖事实”！美国“缩水版”进口铜关税政策落地 美铜单日跌近20%大幅回吐溢价

Core Viewpoint - The announcement of a 50% tariff on imported copper products by the U.S. has led to a significant drop in copper prices, with COMEX copper falling over 20% on July 30, 2023, as market expectations shifted following the tariff implementation [1][2]. Tariff Impact - The U.S. government, under President Trump, has officially imposed a 50% tariff on imported copper semi-finished products and high-copper derivatives starting August 1, 2023, while excluding copper input materials and scrap from this tariff [2][3]. - The market had previously reacted to the tariff expectations, driving COMEX copper prices to nearly $6 per pound, but the actual announcement led to a substantial price correction [2][4]. Market Reactions - Following the tariff announcement, COMEX copper experienced a significant price drop, while London copper prices remained relatively stable, indicating a divergence in market reactions [2][4]. - Analysts expect that the copper market will return to a more rational pricing structure, especially if electrolytic copper is excluded from the tariff, which would eliminate arbitrage opportunities [3][4]. Additional Negative Factors - Rising copper inventories in the U.S. have contributed to the price decline, with COMEX copper inventories reaching their highest level since 2004, having more than doubled this year [4]. - The Federal Reserve's decision to maintain interest rates and the strengthening of the U.S. dollar, driven by better-than-expected economic data, have also negatively impacted copper prices [4]. Future Price Outlook - Despite the recent downturn, analysts remain cautiously optimistic about copper prices for the remainder of the year, with expectations for LME copper prices to average $9,500 per ton by Q4 2025, reflecting a 2.7% increase from previous forecasts [5][6]. - Concerns over declining copper ore grades and production levels continue to support copper prices, with significant reductions in production forecasts from major companies like Glencore [6].