China urges U.S. to halt tariff probe on copper imports, warns of retaliation

China has called on the United States to cease its investigation into potential new tariffs on copper imports, warning that any imposition of tariffs could provoke retaliatory measures.

The probe, directed by President Donald Trump and to be carried out under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962, is part of an effort to rebuild U.S. copper production—critical for electric vehicles, military hardware, power grids, and consumer goods.

At a recent news conference, He Yadong, a spokesperson for China’s commerce ministry, condemned the U.S. investigation. “The decision to direct the Commerce Department to start a new national security probe, using the same law that was applied to impose 25% global tariffs on steel and aluminum during Trump’s first term, will further undermine the rules-based multilateral trading system and disrupt the stability of global industrial supply chains,” He said.

He added that allegations claiming China is using subsidies and excess capacity to undermine competition are “completely groundless.” The Chinese government has urged U.S. authorities to withdraw the investigation immediately. “If the U.S. insists on imposing tariffs and other restrictive measures, China will resolutely take the required steps to safeguard its legitimate rights and interests,” He stated, without providing further details.

The outcome of the probe remains uncertain, but the remarks underscore the heightened tensions between the two nations over trade policies and the potential disruption of global supply chains.

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