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

The Entertainment Software Association (ESA) urges the Trump administration to collaborate with the private sector to mitigate potential harm to the video game industry resulting from the president's import tariffs.

In a statement to IGN, the ESA stressed the need for dialogue with the private sector "to maintain the economic growth our industry supports." The statement highlighted the widespread popularity of video games and warned that tariffs on gaming devices and related products would negatively impact millions of Americans and the industry's significant contribution to the U.S. economy. The ESA expressed its willingness to work with the administration and Congress to find solutions.

The ESA represents major players including Microsoft, Nintendo, Sony Interactive Entertainment, Square Enix, Ubisoft, Epic Games, and Electronic Arts.

Although currently focused on Canada, China, and Mexico, President Trump has indicated that tariffs on the European Union are likely, and expressed concerns regarding the UK's trade practices. He stated (via Reuters) that the EU's actions were "an atrocity," while acknowledging the possibility of resolving the UK situation.

Industry analysts are assessing the potential impact. David Gibson, senior analyst at MST Financial, tweeted that while the China tariffs might not significantly affect the Nintendo Switch 2 in the U.S., tariffs on Vietnamese imports could alter the situation. He also noted that the PS5 could be more vulnerable, suggesting Sony might increase non-China production.

Joost van Dreunen, author of the Super Joost newsletter, in a recent IGN interview, discussed the potential impact of tariffs on the price of Nintendo's new console, suggesting that the broader economic climate, including potential tariff effects, could significantly influence consumer demand.