Washington: US President Donald Trump has launched an investigation into the national security risks posed by rising copper imports, a move that could lead to new tariffs on the crucial industrial metal. Through an executive order, Trump directed Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick to assess potential threats under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962, which grants the president authority to impose trade restrictions on national security grounds.
The White House emphasized that the probe would examine America’s growing reliance on foreign copper and explore measures to strengthen domestic production. “Like our steel and aluminum industries, our copper industry has been decimated by global actors attacking our domestic production,” Trump wrote on Truth Social. He vowed to restore the sector, stating, “American industries depend on copper, and it should be MADE IN AMERICA—No exemptions, no exceptions!”
The commerce secretary has 270 days to submit findings, with Trump expected to decide on trade actions within 90 days of receiving the report. However, a White House official hinted that the process would move swiftly under “Trump time.”
India Responds to US Tariff Strategy with High-Level Review Panel
New Delhi: As the US gears up to implement reciprocal tariffs by April 2, the Indian government has formed a high-level committee to evaluate potential tariff adjustments on imports from the United States.
Under the Union Commerce Ministry, the panel is tasked with reviewing existing tariff structures—ranging from 15–80%—and recommending modifications based on an “8-digit product classification code” used for customs purposes. The review aims to strike a balance between trade competitiveness and strategic economic interests.
Sources indicate that the committee will submit its report by March 15 to both the Commerce and Finance Ministries, with final approval resting with the Prime Minister’s Office. India has already taken proactive steps to ease import duties, as reflected in the Union Budget 2025–26, which reduced tariffs on bourbon whiskey (from 150% to 100%), scrap materials, satellite equipment, and high-end motorcycles.
The findings of the review panel will be pivotal in shaping India’s trade response as global tariff battles intensify.