In a significant shake-up for retro gaming fans in the United States, popular handheld console manufacturer Anbernic has officially suspended all shipments to the US, citing recent tariff hikes imposed by President Donald Trump as the primary cause.
🔍 The Tariff Situation
Just weeks ago, President Trump announced sweeping international tariff hikes affecting imports from countries like China and Vietnam, key hubs for electronics manufacturing. While certain items, like smartphones, were later exempted from these tariffs, video game consoles were not.
As a result, products manufactured in China now face tariffs as high as 145%, making it financially unsustainable for companies like Anbernic to continue exporting to the United States under current conditions.
🚫 Anbernic’s Shipping Suspension Explained
According to a report from The Verge, Anbernic stated that “changes in US tariff policies” were behind their decision to halt shipments.
Customers in the US can still purchase Anbernic devices already stocked in American warehouses, but direct imports from China have ceased. This includes newer or less common models like the Anbernic RG CubeXX and RG 406H, which are currently unavailable through local channels.
đź›’ What It Means for US Customers
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Limited availability: Only select models already in the US are available for purchase.
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Import block: No new units will be shipped from China, limiting access to the latest models.
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Price hikes: If tariffs continue, even domestic inventory may see price increases.
🛠️ Anbernic’s Response
Anbernic is working to find a “suitable solution” for customers impacted by high fees and canceled imports. It’s unclear whether the company will attempt to reroute shipments through third-party logistics or set up new distribution hubs outside China.
🎮 The Bigger Picture
This move underscores the broader impact of international trade policies on gaming culture and consumer access. As tariffs alter the dynamics of global manufacturing, American gamers may need to rely more heavily on domestic resellers, secondhand markets, or alternate brands until the situation stabilizes.