International crude oil prices remained steady on July 9 as investors weighed strong US gasoline demand against the impact of attacks on Red Sea shipping.

Additionally, on Wednesday, US President Donald Trump announced that a 50% tariff will be imposed on imported copper starting August 1 to boost US copper production.

West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude for August delivery increased by US$0.05 (0.07%), reaching US$68.38 per barrel on the New York Mercantile Exchange. Brent crude for September delivery rose by US$0.04 (0.06%), settling at US$70.19 per barrel.