U.S. Stockpiles 590,000 Tons of Copper, Inventories Surge 300% Ahead of Tariff
U.S. warehouses hold a record 590,000 short tons of copper in COMEX storage—the highest in over 30 years—propelling inventory up 300% as traders front-run potential 15%-25% tariffs. Analysts warn the glut may reverse mid-2026 when tariff uncertainty ends, pressuring prices as AI-led demand drives copper shortage, boosting ETF interest.
1. Record Copper Stockpile
American COMEX-approved warehouses now hold 590,000 short tons of copper, the highest level in over three decades, marking an unprecedented accumulation of metal within U.S. borders.
2. Tariff-Driven Inventory Glut
Copper inventories have climbed nearly 300% over the past year as traders rush to import refined metal before the anticipated 15%–25% U.S. tariffs on refined copper take effect.
3. Outlook for Prices
Market observers caution that when tariff uncertainty lifts—likely mid-2026—a wave of metal could flow back out, creating short-term price pressure even as long-term demand from AI and electrification looms.
4. ETF Implications
Investors are increasingly using copper and copper-miner ETFs such as Global X Copper Miners ETF and United States Copper Index Fund to gain liquid exposure to this thematic trade without owning physical metal.