Trump Orders Investigation into China’s Copper Reserves

WHITE HOUSE — China’s growing copper reserves have caught the attention of President Donald Trump, who on Tuesday initiated an investigation into what administration officials claim is Beijing’s strategy to "gain control of the world’s copper markets."

In the Oval Office, Trump directed his newly appointed Secretary of Commerce, Howard Lutnick, to elaborate on the situation. Lutnick referenced a social media post he intended to publish, stating: "Tariffs will help rebuild our American copper industry and strengthen our national defense. American industries rely on copper, and it should be produced in America. No exemptions, no exceptions. America first creates American jobs and secures our national security. It’s time for copper to come home."

Earlier in the day, Trump’s senior counselor for trade and manufacturing expressed the administration’s apprehensions regarding the issue. "China has long utilized industrial overcapacity and dumping as an economic weapon to dominate global markets, systematically undercutting competitors and driving rival industries out of business by massively subsidizing key sectors, flooding international markets with below-cost goods, and subsequently consolidating control once competitors collapse," said Peter Navarro during a call with reporters ahead of the signing. "China has successfully broadened its economic influence across various sectors, including steel, aluminum, solar panels, and electric vehicles."

Trump’s order activates an investigation under the authority of the Trade Expansion Act, which examines whether the importation of a specific item poses a threat to national security. The president will have the discretion to act on the recommendations provided in the report, which is expected to be submitted in 270 days.

Earlier this month, the Chinese government released a report outlining a plan to increase copper ore reserves by 5% to 10% by 2027. According to Chinese government statistics, China is projected to lead the world in the production of both refined copper and copper-processed materials by 2024.

Navarro informed reporters that the U.S. aims to capitalize on the nation’s "untapped" copper potential and cited plans to enhance U.S. production by 70%, thereby reducing external reliance on this crucial material for electrical equipment.