Copper is used in a wide variety of products from electronics, wiring, machinery and cars. The U.S. produces a majority of the copper it uses but still imports large quantities, primarily from

SANTIAGO (Reuters) -Copper production from Chilean state-run miner Codelco ticked up some 16.5% year-over-year in May, data from copper commission Cochilco showed on Thursday, climbing to 130,100 metric tons.

For Chile, the US market accounts for less than 13% of total copper exports, but the impact of the tariffs goes far beyond mere trade volumes. Copper exports remain Chile's largest source of foreign exchange earnings, totaling $50.86 billion in 2024.

President Trump wants America to produce more of the much-needed mineral, but a 50 percent tariff could undermine his aim of a manufacturing renaissance.

Chilean copper mines had their best month of export revenue in more than three years in June, with the increase in value outstripping price gains in a sign of rising production.

Copper might not be the most exciting or cutting-edge medtech material, but this metal is used in a wide range of medical devices.

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday announced a 50% tariff on copper imports and stated he was considering a 200% tariff on pharmaceutical products if manufacturers do not move their operations to the United States.

This year, BMI estimates global copper mine output to rise 2.5% as production in Chile recovers and the giant Oyu Tolgoi mine in Mongolia ramps up. Those in Peru, Russia and Zambia will also remain among the major contributors, it adds.