CHEYENNE, Wyoming (AP) — President Donald Trump is moving forward with supporting the U.S. mining industry’s desires by highlighting copper as a key element in his domestic minerals strategy. From discussions about obtaining Greenland for its abundant mineral resources to urging Ukraine to trade minerals for assistance against Russia’s invasion, Trump has made natural resources a centerpiece of his foreign policy.
In a recent executive order signed by Trump, he calls for a boost in the domestic copper sector by examining the national security implications of imports and considering tariffs as a potential response. The order acknowledges the United States’ plentiful copper reserves but points out that the country’s smelting and refining capabilities lag behind global competitors.
This initiative could signal a new era for U.S. copper mining, raising concerns for environmental organizations opposing projects like the stalled Twin Metals venture near the Boundary Waters in northern Minnesota.
Copper’s Importance
Copper is essential for rechargeable batteries, along with lithium and cobalt, as well as for various electronic devices like cellphones and LED lights. It plays a crucial role in transmitting electricity, making it a vital metal. Despite fluctuations in U.S. copper usage, imports, and exports, the lack of sufficient smelting capacity compared to domestic mining levels has been a persistent issue.
Where the U.S. Sources Copper
While the U.S. mined approximately 1.1 million tons of copper in 2024 and exported a significant portion in unrefined form, it imported 810,000 tons, mostly refined. The executive order correctly identifies China as the world’s leading copper refiner, but the majority of U.S. refined copper imports come from Chile, a top copper producer. Changes in these figures are uncertain as global demand for copper is projected to rise significantly.
Looking Ahead
With the anticipated surge in copper demand for infrastructure projects like transmission lines and renewable energy technologies, it remains to be seen how the U.S. will adapt its copper supply chain. Trump’s executive order aligns with previous actions supporting the mining sector and prioritizing domestic mineral resources.
In summary, the U.S. is poised to strengthen its copper industry, emphasizing the importance of self-sufficiency and national security in the realm of mineral resources.
“It all starts with American mining and American miners who supported this president across the country,” said Rich Nolan, president and CEO of the National Mining Association. Copper projects have encountered delays, with the mining association focusing on key priorities.
These priorities include the controversial $1.7 billion Twin Metals copper-nickel-cobalt mine in northeastern Minnesota, which environmental groups argue poses a significant threat to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. A recent setback for the project occurred when a judge declined to reinstate mining leases. Additionally, the $1 billion NewRange Copper Nickel mine in the same region has faced challenges, prompting developers to consider redesigning the project for improved environmental and cost efficiency.
The Resolution Copper project at Oak Flat in central Arizona remains a subject of contention, as it is home to one of the world’s largest copper ore deposits. The project has sparked a clash between local residents advocating for economic development and native Apache communities who view the land as sacred. Despite resistance, an appeals court panel in 2024 rejected a bid to halt a crucial land transfer for the mine.
In southern Arizona, the proposed Copper World copper-molybdenum mine, formerly known as the Rosemont mine, has been hindered by a court ruling restricting how mining companies can dispose of tailings on U.S. Forest Service land under the 1872 Mining Law. Notably, all four projects are spearheaded by non-U.S. companies, such as Hudbay Minerals Inc. based in Toronto, Canada, overseeing the development of Copper World.
Some mines operate below full capacity, prompting calls for a national strategy from Rob Peters, executive director of Save the Scenic Santa Ritas, a group opposing Copper World. Peters emphasizes the importance of protecting the environment and public health by avoiding new mining ventures and optimizing production at existing mines operating under capacity. However, he notes a lack of governmental coordination, likening the current scenario to the ‘Wild West,’ where foreign mining companies predominantly enter the scene with profit as the primary motivator.
Decades ago, Arizona’s copper production propelled the U.S. to become the world’s leading producer, but now it ranks fifth globally. Industry consultant Struhsacker highlights the permit delays and stifled mine development due to the absence of government coordination. She points to Trump’s executive orders as a step towards addressing the need to streamline the permitting process and revitalize the industry.
