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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider DENR-MGB: US copper tariff could speed up PH shift to value-added production

DENR-MGB: US copper tariff could speed up PH shift to value-added production

Published Jul 11, 2025 05:02 pm
(PHOTO: PIXABAY)
(PHOTO: PIXABAY)
The Department of Environment and Natural Resources-Mines and Geosciences Bureau (DENR-MGB) said on Friday, July 11, that the newly imposed 50 percent tariff on copper exports to the United States (US) could accelerate the Philippines’ shift from raw mineral exports to domestic refining and value-added production.
While the immediate impact of the tariff is expected to be limited due to the country’s relatively small copper export share to the US, the DENR-MGB warned that broader price volatility and global market disruption may still hit local producers.
“Philippine copper producers are likely to explore alternative markets to offset potential losses in the US,” the agency said in a statement, adding that fluctuations in copper prices could affect the industry’s bottom line.
Rather than treating the tariff purely as a setback, the DENR-MGB said the government is urging the industry to treat it as a turning point.
“In response to the tariff, the industry represented by Chamber of Mines of the Philippines (CoMP) is expected to focus on value-added activities, such as domestic refining and downstream investments, to enhance competitiveness,” DENR-MGB stated.
“Government remains committed to the sustainable development of copper resources, recognizing the metal’s crucial role in the global transition to clean energy,” the bureau said.
The DENR-MGB assured it would continue working closely with industry stakeholders and monitoring the impact of the tariff to protect the long-term sustainability of the mining sector.
Copper remains a key resource for the country. Per the latest DENR-MGB Copper Mineral Profile, the industry contributes significantly to the Philippine economy, especially amid rising global demand for copper in clean energy technologies.
“As the country moves forward, industry stakeholders are keen on balancing resource extraction with sustainability and environmental stewardship,” the bureau said. 
The MGB said it remains committed to monitoring and regulating mining activities to ensure responsible mining practices that contribute to the country’s economic progress.
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