Visualizing the U.S. Copper Gap

Key Takeaways

• In 2024, the U.S. produced 1,714 kt of copper through mining and scrap, yet exported 843 kt as unprocessed concentrate and scrap. This raw copper could meet a significant portion of domestic demand if processed locally.
• The U.S. imports 720 kt of refined copper annually, not because it lacks copper, but because it lacks enough smelting and refining infrastructure. With only three primary smelters, the country cannot fully process its own production.
• This week U.S. President Donald Trump announced plans to implement a 50% tariff on the industrial metal.