On July 9, 2025, copper prices in the U.S. surged to an all-time high following President Donald Trump’s threat to impose a 50% import tariff on the metal. The announcement sent shockwaves through global markets, with copper futures on the COMEX spiking 13% — the steepest daily rise in five years. Copper, unlike gold, is a critical industrial metal essential in construction, energy, and electronics. It directly reflects the health of the economy. This sudden price jump sparked concerns about inflation and potential disruptions in supply chains. Manufacturers warned of likely product price increases. The U.S. remains heavily reliant on copper imports from Chile, Peru, and Canada. Imposing tariffs could provoke retaliatory trade actions and strain international relations. Analysts noted that while mining companies might benefit in the short term, consumers will ultimately bear the cost. Such protectionist measures also risk breaching WTO obligations and destabilizing long-term market expectations. A White House spokesperson stated the tariffs were still under discussion, but “no actions are off the table.” The spike in commodity prices may pressure the Federal Reserve to revise its monetary policy in light of potential inflationary trends. On this day, copper became more than a commodity — it became a symbol of economic anxiety and the intersection of policy, politics, and global commerce. Sources: theguardian.com, investopedia.com, ft.com