Anbernic, a prominent manufacturer of retro handheld consoles, has announced a suspension of all U.S. orders due to "changes in U.S. tariff policies." As reported by The Verge, the company advises customers to opt for products shipped from their U.S. warehouse, which remain unaffected by import duties, ensuring a worry-free purchase experience. Unfortunately, orders requiring shipment from China will no longer be processed.
Anbernic is renowned for its affordable Chinese Game Boy clones, which are typically drop-shipped from China upon release, with surplus units stored in U.S. warehouses for quick delivery. However, their website allows customers to select between U.S. and Chinese shipping options, though not all products, like the Anbernic RG CubeXX and RG 406H, are available from the U.S. This means certain models will be inaccessible to American players during this period.
The Trump administration's implementation of tariffs, which can reach up to 145% on Chinese imports, with potential increases to 245% for items like electric vehicles, has had a ripple effect on the gaming industry. While some companies might absorb these costs, it's more common for them to be passed on to consumers, resulting in higher prices for tech and gaming products, including Nintendo Switch 2 accessories and gaming laptops.
Anbernic is actively seeking a "suitable solution" to assist customers affected by custom fees during this transition. Meanwhile, Nintendo has officially unveiled the Switch 2 during a 60-minute Nintendo Direct this month. Originally, pre-orders for the Switch 2 were scheduled to open in early April in the U.S., but due to tariff uncertainties in both the U.S. and Canada, the pre-order date was delayed to April 24. Nintendo has maintained the $449.99 price point for the Switch 2 console and its games, but has raised prices on most Switch 2 accessories.
