Home News Trump's Tariffs on Video Games Would Cause 'Significant Harm' to 'Everyday Americans,' ESA Warns

Trump's Tariffs on Video Games Would Cause 'Significant Harm' to 'Everyday Americans,' ESA Warns

Author : Andrew Feb 28,2025

The Entertainment Software Association (ESA) urges the Trump administration to collaborate with the private sector to mitigate the potential negative impact of import tariffs on the video game industry. In a statement to IGN, the ESA highlighted the industry's significant contribution to the U.S. economy and expressed concern that tariffs on video game hardware and related products would harm American consumers and the industry as a whole. The ESA represents major players including Microsoft, Nintendo, Sony, Square Enix, Ubisoft, Epic Games, and Electronic Arts.

Concerns exist regarding the potential price increases for physical video game products due to U.S. tariffs. Photo by Phil Barker/Future Publishing via Getty Images.

President Trump recently imposed tariffs on Canada, China, and Mexico, prompting retaliatory measures. While a temporary pause on Mexican tariffs has been announced, further tariffs on the European Union are anticipated, with the UK's situation remaining uncertain. President Trump cited concerns about the European Union's trade practices.

Analysts are assessing the potential consequences. David Gibson of MST Financial, on X, suggested that while China-based tariffs might not significantly affect the Nintendo Switch 2 in the U.S., tariffs on Vietnamese imports could alter this. He also noted potential challenges for the PlayStation 5, although Sony might adjust production to mitigate the impact.

Joost van Dreunen, author of the Super Joost newsletter, in a recent IGN interview, discussed the potential impact of tariffs on the price and consumer reception of Nintendo's upcoming console, emphasizing the broader economic context.

Latest Articles More
  • Asus ROG Ally Z1 Extreme Handheld Gaming PC Now $449.99, Save $200

    This week, Best Buy is offering a major discount on the Asus ROG Ally Z1 Extreme gaming handheld—now just $449.99, down from its original price of $649.99. That’s not only a $200 saving but also the lowest price we’ve seen for a brand-new unit, even beating out Black Friday deals. Plus, with your pu

    Jul 09,2025
  • Nintendo Switch 2 Mario Kart Bundle Now at AliExpress Without Markup

    If you're still searching for a Nintendo Switch 2 console, here's a deal that might catch your eye. AliExpress currently offers the **Nintendo Switch 2 Mario Kart World Tour Console Bundle** for **$498.95**, after applying the coupon code **AEUS100** at checkout. This price includes free shipping an

    Jul 09,2025
  • Japan Expansion of Ticket to Ride: Build the Bullet Train Network!

    *Ticket to Ride* is now offering players a scenic virtual journey through Japan with the release of its latest expansion. Developed by Marmalade Game Studio and Asmodee Entertainment, the Japan Expansion brings fresh gameplay mechanics and cultural flavor to the popular digital adaptation of the cla

    Jul 09,2025
  • "Monster Hunter Wilds Player Count Drops Sharply, MH World Gains Ground"

    Monster Hunter Wilds, once riding high as Capcom’s fastest-selling title of the year, has seen a sharp decline in its player base. What was once a thriving community of over one million players at launch has now dropped to just around 40,000 concurrent players on Steam. This drop brings MH Wilds dan

    Jul 09,2025
  • Geralt Actor Dismisses 'Woke' Claims About Ciri in The Witcher 4

    Doug Cockle, the acclaimed voice actor behind Geralt of Rivia in *The Witcher* series, has responded strongly to backlash surrounding *The Witcher 4*’s decision to center on Ciri as the main protagonist. In a recent interview with Fall Damage, Cockle dismissed criticism that the move was an example

    Jul 08,2025
  • "Hurry! Only 2 Days Left for Best Audible Deal"

    This is your best chance to sign up for an Audible membership at an unbeatable price. From now until April 30, you can enjoy three months of Audible Premium Plus for just $0.99 per month—a massive discount from the regular rate of $14.95/month. As a Premium Plus member, you'll also receive one free

    Jul 08,2025