Key Takeaways
1. High Tariffs on Imports: US tariffs on Chinese goods can reach up to 245%, significantly impacting companies like Anbernic.
2. Shipping Halt: Anbernic has stopped shipments from China to the US, advising customers to purchase from local warehouses before stocks run out.
3. Increased Costs: Small electronics face hefty fees; starting May 2nd, $100 per item will be charged for imports from China, complicating pricing for budget-friendly products.
4. Effect on Pricing: Many brands, including Anbernic, are halting shipments instead of raising prices due to new tariffs, making retro gaming consoles less accessible.
5. Limited Alternatives: Other companies producing retro gaming consoles may also face shipment issues, limiting options for consumers looking for alternatives to Anbernic’s products.
Steep US tariffs on Chinese goods are having a huge effect on the retro gaming console market. Anbernic is known for its budget-friendly handhelds that replicate systems like the Game Boy and PS1. Sadly, the company has revealed that it’s putting a stop to shipments from China to the US. Customers are advised to buy products from local warehouses before they run out of stock.
Tariffs on Imports
President Trump has enacted tariffs on Chinese imports that can reach up to 145%, with the possibility of increasing to 245%. While other nations enjoy a 90-day grace period for tariffs exceeding 10%, China is not one of those countries. Without a resolution between these superpowers, the costs of laptops and smartphones may also rise steeply. Nintendo has managed to sidestep some of the tariff impact by relocating part of its manufacturing to Vietnam, but that transition began several years ago. In contrast, Chinese companies like Anbernic are not as ready for the economic challenges ahead.
Impact on Pricing
Consumer electronics that are affordable and compact are the most affected by the US tariffs. Small packages sent from China will incur a fee of $100 per item starting May 2nd, which will increase to $200 after June 1st. Many of Anbernic’s retro gaming console models, such as the well-liked RG35XX, are priced well below $100. This situation makes it hard for the company to absorb the new fees. To avoid significantly raising prices, most brands are choosing to stop shipments to the US in hopes of tariff relief.
Emulation Software and Alternatives
Anbernic’s gaming handhelds come with emulation software already installed. They usually include SD cards loaded with ROMs, but many players prefer to find less glitchy options themselves. The company steers clear of major intellectual properties like Mario and Zelda, which has helped them avoid copyright issues.
Gamers in search of alternatives to Anbernic’s retro consoles may soon find their choices limited, as other companies like Ayaneo and Retroid also have operations in China.
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