The president was following through on an earlier statement that he would target a key metal used for semiconductors, lithium-ion batteries and more.

President Donald Trump announced that the United States will impose a 50% tariff on all copper imports starting August 1. The decision threatens to disrupt a global supply chain for one of the key inputs for the American industry and a crucial commodity for the green technology transition.

US copper purchasers are preparing for significantly higher expenses if a 50% duty on processed copper is imposed from August 1, industry producers and analysts say. With Washington on the verge of applying these duties,