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Trump Vows No Tariff Extension, Hardens Threats on Copper, Drugs
— Former U.S. President Donald Trump has declared that he will not extend existing tariff waivers if he returns to office, doubling down on his protectionist trade agenda. In a recent campaign event, Trump intensified his threats by targeting new sectors, particularly copper and pharmaceuticals, arguing that foreign competitors are undercutting American industries and posing national security risks.
POLITICS
7/9/20251 min read
Speaking in Ohio, a key battleground state, Trump accused countries like China, India, and Chile of "manipulating markets" and “dumping critical goods” into the U.S. at unfair prices. “We’re not going to be weak anymore,” Trump told a cheering crowd. “There will be no more handouts to foreign nations who rob our workers of jobs and flood our markets with cheap and dangerous products.”
According to Trump, his administration—if re-elected—would impose steep tariffs on copper imports to “reclaim control of America’s supply chains.” Copper is a vital metal used in electronics, construction, and green energy, and a major export for countries such as Chile, Peru, and Mexico. The pharmaceutical sector also came under fire, with Trump accusing overseas manufacturers of producing “low-quality, unsafe” drugs and driving down prices for U.S. companies.
“We will bring back pharmaceutical manufacturing to the U.S.,” he said. “No more dependence on China or India for our medicine.”
The remarks have already triggered concerns among global exporters and trade partners. Analysts warn that tariffs on copper and pharmaceutical products could disrupt supply chains, increase prices for American consumers, and spark retaliatory measures from affected countries.
“These statements add a new layer of uncertainty to global trade,” said Diane Harris, a trade policy analyst at the Brookings Institution. “Targeting metals and medicines—two sectors critical for both industry and public health—signals a much more aggressive and risky trade posture.”
Investors are watching closely, especially in commodity markets. Copper futures dipped slightly following the comments, while pharmaceutical sector stocks saw mixed reactions amid speculation over production shifts and rising import costs.
While some in the Republican base view Trump’s tough trade stance as a return to "America First" policies, critics argue it could lead to economic isolation and further strain relations with key allies and trading partners.
As the 2024 presidential race heats up, Trump’s aggressive trade rhetoric is likely to remain a central theme, signaling a sharp departure from the current administration’s multilateral and cooperative approach to international trade.