White House Economic Council Director Kevin Hassett defends Trump's 50% copper tariff, citing national security concerns and domestic production.

U.S. President Donald Trump's threat of a 50% tariff on copper imports is raising alarm in the U.S. auto sector, as it could make it even harder for carmakers and suppliers to absorb border taxes and rising costs,

Manufacturers and construction companies — as well as consumers — would face higher prices if the U.S. jacks up tariffs on copper, analysts said.

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

Freeport-McMoRan could see a $1.6-billion boost to annual profit if President Donald Trump's copper tariff materializes, a benefit driven by the firm's role as the largest U.S. producer with more expansion options than rivals.