FX.co ★ India May Seek WTO Consultations Over US Copper Tariffs

India is contemplating initiating discussions with the United States at the World Trade Organization (WTO) concerning US-imposed tariffs on copper imports. If pursued, this would constitute India's third case of consultations with the US on trade matters, following earlier cases involving steel and aluminum, and automobiles and auto components, under the WTO Agreement on Safeguards. On August 1, the US enacted a 50% tariff on the copper input value of imported semi-finished and derivative copper products, justified under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962. This section permits the US President to limit imports of goods that may pose a threat to national security. An official indicated, "We are contemplating an action on copper, similar to previous actions on iron, steel, and autos," as reported by The Economic Times. In the fiscal year 2025, India exported copper products valued at USD 360 million to the US. On July 30, US President Donald Trump issued a presidential proclamation enforcing the tariff, which took effect on August 1.