The Trump administration says that the tariffs on metals imports are aimed at boosting domestic industries and addressing "trade imbalances."

In a flurry of trade news on Wednesday, Trump imposed new rates on copper imports and ended the de minimis exemption.

WASHINGTON, DC — On July 30th, the White House issued a proclamation imposing a universal 50% tariff on imports of “semi-finished” copper products, including wires, sheets and pipes.