又是232关税！特朗普宣布50%“铜关税”，只针对半成品

Core Viewpoint - The U.S. government has imposed a 50% tariff on all semi-finished copper products and copper-intensive derivatives starting August 1, 2023, citing national security concerns [1][2][4]. Group 1: Tariff Details - The tariff applies to semi-finished copper materials such as copper pipes, wires, rods, and sheets, as well as copper-intensive derivatives like fittings, cables, connectors, and electrical components [1][5]. - Copper raw materials (e.g., copper ore, concentrates, blister copper, cathodes, and anodes) and copper scrap are exempt from this tariff [1][7]. - The tariff will not be cumulative with existing tariffs, such as the 25% tariff on automobiles, meaning if a copper product is subject to both, only the higher tariff will apply [5][10]. Group 2: Market Impact - Following the announcement, copper prices in New York dropped approximately 18% to $4.60 per pound, contrasting with a previous spike to nearly $6 per pound earlier in the month [1][7]. - Analysts noted that the focus on semi-finished products was a significant market surprise, leading to a widening price gap between U.S. and London copper prices [7][9]. - The U.S. relies on imports for about half of its refined copper, with only two domestic smelters, indicating a potential supply challenge [7][9]. Group 3: Domestic Industry Implications - The U.S. government aims to bolster domestic refining capacity by requiring that a portion of high-quality copper scrap remains in the domestic market, starting with 25% by 2027 and increasing to 40% by 2029 [9][10]. - The new regulations may lead to higher prices for various products, from construction materials to electronics, due to increased costs associated with the tariffs [11].