The demand for copper in the U.S. is projected to double over the next decade, yet domestic production remains insufficient to meet this growing need unless regulatory barriers to new mining projects are addressed.
In an effort to boost American mineral production, former President Donald Trump signed an executive order aimed at expanding domestic resource extraction.
“The United States possesses vast mineral resources that can create jobs, fuel prosperity, and significantly reduce our reliance on foreign nations,” the order stated. “Once the world’s leading producer of valuable minerals, America’s mining sector has been hindered by stringent federal regulations.”
One of the largest copper mines in the U.S., Utah’s Bingham Canyon Mine—also known as the Kennecott Copper Mine—is an example of the nation’s mining potential.
Regulatory Hurdles for New Copper Mines
The executive order prioritizes key minerals such as copper, uranium, potash, and gold, offering hope to an industry struggling to compete with nations that have more flexible mining regulations.
Clayton Walker, Chief Operating Officer of Copper at Rio Tinto, emphasized the need to accelerate mining projects in the U.S.:
“We have to develop more mines and utilize the resources available in our own country. That’s how we fuel manufacturing and support industries that rely on raw materials. The entire supply chain starts with mining,” he said.
For instance, Rio Tinto has been working for 17 years to open the Resolution Copper mine in Arizona, which could provide up to 20% of the nation’s copper needs. However, regulatory delays, land rights disputes, and environmental concerns have slowed progress.
“In the U.S., it takes nearly 29 years to get a mine fully permitted,” Walker explained. “We must uphold high environmental and safety standards, but we also need a more efficient process to bring these critical projects online faster.”
Adding Copper to the Critical Minerals List
One potential solution to streamline copper mining approvals is to classify copper as a critical mineral. The U.S. Department of Energy defines a critical mineral as one with a high risk of supply chain disruption and an essential role in energy technologies.
Adding copper to this list could ease restrictions and accelerate development, allowing companies like Rio Tinto to bring new mines into production more quickly.
Walker stressed the importance of this designation:
“Recognizing copper as a critical mineral is crucial. Excluding it from the list delays access to essential resources, limiting our ability to meet demand efficiently. We have high standards in the U.S., and we can mine copper more responsibly than anywhere else—if given the chance.”
The Role of Kennecott and U.S. Copper Production
Rio Tinto’s Kennecott mine near Salt Lake City is the largest open-pit mine in the world, spanning 2.5 miles wide and 4,000 feet deep. Over its 120-year history, it has produced more copper than any other mine globally.
“The legacy of Kennecott is incredible. During World War II, it supplied 25% of the metal used by the Allies,” said Nate Foster, Kennecott’s Managing Director. “That history is what keeps me here.”
Despite its scale, Kennecott is one of only two sites in the U.S. that can mine, smelt, and refine copper domestically. By contrast, China operates more than 50 copper smelters. This lack of domestic refining capacity forces the U.S. to export over 400,000 tons of copper concentrate annually for processing abroad—only to import the finished product back.
“We have one of the cleanest smelters in the world, which makes Kennecott a strategic asset,” Foster added. “With continued investment, we can strengthen America’s copper supply chain while maintaining the highest environmental standards.”
Tariffs and the Future of U.S. Copper
With the U.S. currently importing nearly 47% of its copper, Trump had previously considered imposing a 25% tariff on foreign copper. While this could benefit domestic mines, it presents challenges for multinational companies like Rio Tinto, which operates globally.
“We’re working closely with the administration to ensure policies support domestic supply without unintended consequences,” Walker noted. “If structured correctly, these measures could help bolster American copper production.”
As demand for copper surges—driven by electric vehicles, renewable energy, and infrastructure projects—the U.S. faces a critical decision: whether to ease mining restrictions and expand domestic production or continue relying on imports to fill the gap.