Washington, Feb 26 (NationPress) US President Donald Trump has enacted an executive order to explore how copper imports pose a threat to America's national security and economic stability. This action could potentially lead to new tariffs on copper, a metal vital for manufacturing aircraft, vehicles, ships, and other military equipment.

Trump has instructed Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick to carry out this investigation under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962. This law empowers the president to impose import restrictions if deemed necessary for national security.

This decision aligns with Trump’s broader strategy to utilize tariffs to enhance the U.S. manufacturing sector, diminish trade deficits, and achieve various policy objectives, according to reports from Yonhap news agency.

According to a fact sheet released by the White House, “This investigation will evaluate the national security threats associated with the U.S.’s growing reliance on imported copper, in all its forms, and assess the need for trade remedies to protect domestic industries.”

The investigation aims to produce a report that will highlight weaknesses in the copper supply chain and suggest measures to strengthen the U.S. copper industry.

In a post on social media, Trump remarked that, similar to the steel and aluminum sectors, the copper industry has faced significant challenges due to global competition undermining domestic production.

He stated, “To rebuild our Copper Industry, I have asked my Secretary of Commerce and USTR to examine Copper Imports and eliminate Unfair Trade practices that jeopardize American jobs. Tariffs will be instrumental in reviving our American Copper Industry and bolstering our National Defense.” USTR refers to the U.S. Trade Representative.

Trump emphasized that “American Industries rely on Copper, and it must be MADE IN AMERICA -- No exemptions, no exceptions! America First generates American jobs and safeguards our National Security. It’s time for Copper to ‘return home.’”

Legally, the commerce secretary has 270 days to deliver findings and recommendations to the president regarding the copper situation. Following this, the president has 90 days to respond to the findings and make a determination.

A White House representative, however, predicted that the investigation would progress swiftly “in Trump time.”

Trump has previously announced intentions to implement 25 percent tariffs on all steel and aluminum imports, and his administration is also considering imposing “reciprocal” tariffs on U.S. imports to equalize duties placed on U.S. exports by other countries. Additionally, he is evaluating potential tariffs on cars, chips, and pharmaceuticals.