Just when you thought it couldn’t get any worse, it very well might have just gotten slightly worse. In 2025, recent U.S. trade policies introduced significant tariffs on imports from countries like China and Vietnam, raising concerns about potential price increases for gaming consoles such as the Xbox Series X/S and PlayStation 5. Both consoles are predominantly manufactured in China, making them susceptible to these tariffs.

Impact on PlayStation 5

Sony’s PS5 is primarily assembled in China. The newly imposed tariffs on Chinese imports could lead to increased production costs for the console. Analysts suggest that these additional costs might be passed on to consumers, resulting in higher retail prices. Some estimates propose that the console’s price could increase by as much as $200, depending on the model.

Impact on Xbox Series X/S

Similarly, Microsoft’s Xbox Series X/S consoles are also manufactured in China. The tariffs could affect the cost of importing these consoles into the U.S., potentially leading to price adjustments. While specific estimates vary, it’s plausible that consumers may see price increases as manufacturers adjust to the new tariff landscape.

Industry Concerns

The broader gaming industry is apprehensive about the impact of these tariffs. The Entertainment Software Association (ESA) warns that such tariffs could harm the entire video game ecosystem, affecting publishers, developers, retailers, and service providers. They express concern that increased console prices might dampen consumer demand, thereby impacting sales and innovation within the industry.

Manufacturer Responses

Both Sony and Microsoft are aware of the potential impact of these tariffs on console pricing. Sony has indicated its intention to “respond flexibly and promptly to changing circumstances” to avoid raising prices. However, they acknowledge that the tariffs could have a financial impact, suggesting that some costs might be unavoidable.

Say It Ain’t So

In light of the recent tariffs on Chinese imports, it’s plausible that the prices of both consoles could increase. Both Sony and Microsoft are exploring strategies to mitigate these costs, but the extent to which they can absorb or offset the additional expenses remains uncertain. Consumers should stay informed about these developments as they may influence purchasing decisions in the coming months.

Now I know that this is not the thing we want to hear after already hearing the devastating news about the Nintendo Switch 2’s price being so high, hopefully for all of our wallets. These consoles don’t jump on the bandwagon.

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