Trump's tariffs threaten to sharply increase the price of gaming consoles and reduce consumer spending in the US, analysts say
The new import tariffs imposed by the Donald Trump administration in 2025 could lead to a significant increase in the price of game consoles and other electronics, which would hit gamers and the entire industry hard. According to analysts, the cost of consoles could increase by almost 70%, and total consumer spending in the US could decrease by $69 billion.
Here's What We Know
In February 2025, the United States imposed a 10% tariff on most goods of Chinese origin, which was increased to 20% in March. At the same time, a 25% duty was imposed on imports from Mexico and Canada, although some of these tariffs were later suspended. In April, global baseline tariffs of 10% were added to almost all countries, with an increase to 125% for China. These measures, which are aimed at protecting national security and supporting domestic production, have significantly complicated the supply chain for electronics, including game consoles.
According to the Consumer Technology Association, about 87% of game consoles imported to the US originate from China, so they are subject to the maximum tariffs. This could lead to a rise in the price of consoles by an average of $428, or 69.4%. Laptops and tablets will go up by 34%, monitors by 31.8%, and smartphones by 30.8%.
Microsoft has already announced price increases for the entire Xbox line: Series S has risen from $299.99 to $379.99, and Series X - from $499.99 to $599.99. Controllers and accessories also became more expensive. These changes have caused concern among gamers, as the price increase comes in the fifth year of the console life cycle.
Industry representatives, including the Entertainment Software Association (ESA), warn that the tariffs will cause significant damage to developers and players in the US. Rising prices will lead to lower sales, job losses and a general decline in one of the fastest growing entertainment industries.
In addition, the increase in the cost of imported materials will have a negative impact on board games, books, magazines and other products related to gaming culture. Small publishers, which are often a source of innovation, may be forced to cut back or close.
Source: Tom's Hardware
