Anbernic Halts U.S. Shipments Due to Tariff Issues

Retro handheld console manufacturer Anbernic has recently announced the suspension of all U.S. orders. As highlighted by The Verge, the company attributes this decision to "changes in U.S. tariff policies." They advise customers to opt for products shipped from their U.S. warehouse, which remain unaffected by import duties and can be purchased confidently. Orders that would typically be shipped directly from China are currently not being processed.

Anbernic is well-known for its affordable Game Boy clones, which are usually dropshipped from China upon release and later supplemented with stock in U.S. warehouses. Their website allows customers to select their preferred shipping location, either from the U.S. or China. However, not all products are available for U.S. shipment, meaning that certain items, such as the Anbernic RG CubeXX and RG 406H, will no longer be accessible to American players.

The recent tariff policies implemented by the Trump administration have imposed rates of up to 145% on imports from China, with potential increases to 245% on specific items like electric vehicles when combined with existing levies. These tariffs can be absorbed by some companies within the supply chain, but more often, they are passed on to consumers. This has led to rising prices affecting tech and gaming products, including Nintendo Switch 2 accessories and gaming laptops.

Anbernic is actively seeking a "suitable solution" for customers who may face custom fees "during this transitional period."

In related news, Nintendo officially unveiled the Switch 2 during a 60-minute Nintendo Direct earlier this month. Originally slated for pre-orders to start in early April in the U.S., tariff-related uncertainties in both the U.S. and Canada prompted Nintendo to delay the pre-order date to April 24. Despite the delay, Nintendo has maintained the $449.99 price for the Switch 2 console and games, though they have raised prices on most Switch 2 accessories.