美媒：美公布新版关键矿产清单草案，铜首次被纳入其中

Group 1 - The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) has proposed a new critical minerals list, adding copper and six other minerals while removing arsenic and tellurium, marking a significant revision since 2018 [1][2] - The proposed list will enter a 30-day public comment period before the final list is published, and minerals on this list will receive government funding and expedited approval for exploration and mining projects [1][2] - The mining sector contributed over $4 trillion to the U.S. economy last year, highlighting the importance of minerals in the supply chain [2] Group 2 - Copper's inclusion in the critical minerals list is due to supply chain disruption risks, with U.S. copper production declining by 20% over the past decade and a projected 11% drop in 2023 [2] - The U.S. relies on imports for approximately 45% of its copper consumption, with major sources being Chile, Canada, Peru, and Mexico [2] - The lengthy permitting process for new mining projects in the U.S. averages 29 years, with 7 to 10 years just for obtaining necessary permits, contributing to the decline in domestic copper production [2] Group 3 - The U.S. currently imposes a 50% tariff on copper-containing products but exempts refined copper, indicating a strategy to boost domestic production while still relying on imports [2] - Experts suggest that the U.S. lacks the capacity to produce all the copper it needs, and while new mining investments are underway, they will take years to come online, maintaining reliance on imports in the short term [2] - Tariffs may increase costs for U.S. importers and consumers, potentially exerting downward pressure on economic growth [2]