Chile’s Copper Exports Stay Strong Despite New U.S. Tariffs

Chile’s government says the country’s copper exports are secure, even though the United States plans to raise tariffs on copper imports to 50% from August 1, 2025.

This news comes directly from official Chilean statements and state-backed industry data. Copper is Chile’s backbone. Last year, copper exports brought Chile over $50 billion, making up a major part of its national income.

The U.S. buys about 11% of Chile’s copper, but most goes to Asia, especially China, which imported more than $23 billion of Chilean copper in 2023. Exports to the U.S. totaled around $4.6 billion for refined copper last year.

The new U.S. tariffs have pushed copper prices higher and created uncertainty for some buyers. However, Chile’s main mining company, Codelco, reached record production in May 2025, up 16.5% from last year.

If Codelco meets its yearly target, it will deliver over 1.3 million metric tons in 2025, turning around earlier declines. To reduce risk, Chile is expanding trade talks with India and the United Arab Emirates and recently strengthened its deal with the European Union.

This trade diversification means even with higher U.S. tariffs, Chile still has strong demand for its copper elsewhere. Copper is found in cars, electronics, and clean energy technology, keeping Chile in a strong market position.

If buyers face higher costs in one country, other customers—especially in Asia—step in. Chile’s focus on new markets shields it from sudden changes in U.S. policy, letting its copper industry continue to provide steady income in an unpredictable world.

All data in this report comes from official Chilean government and industry sources.