Anbernic Halts U.S. Shipments Due to Tariff Issues

Anbernic, a prominent manufacturer of retro handheld consoles, has announced a suspension of all U.S. orders due to recent changes in U.S. tariff policies. As highlighted by The Verge, the company advises customers to opt for products shipped from their U.S. warehouse, which remain unaffected by import duties and can be purchased confidently. Orders requiring shipment from China will no longer be processed.

Anbernic is well-known for its affordable Game Boy-inspired devices, which are typically shipped directly from China upon release and later stocked in U.S. warehouses. Customers can select their preferred shipping location on Anbernic's website, but not all products are available from U.S. stock, meaning certain models such as the Anbernic RG CubeXX and RG 406H are no longer accessible to American consumers.

The Trump administration's imposition of tariffs, reaching up to 145% on Chinese imports, with potential increases to 245% for products like electric vehicles, has forced many companies to pass these costs onto consumers. This has led to rising prices across the tech and gaming sectors, affecting products such as Nintendo Switch 2 accessories and gaming laptops.

Anbernic has stated they are "working to find a suitable solution" for customers impacted by customs fees "during this transitional period."

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