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 devices and related products would harm hundreds of millions of American consumers. They emphasized their willingness to work with the administration and Congress to ensure continued economic growth within the sector.

President Trump recently imposed tariffs on Canada, China, and Mexico, prompting retaliatory measures from Canada and Mexico, and a WTO lawsuit from China. While a temporary pause on Mexican tariffs has been announced, the potential impact on the European Union and the UK remains uncertain. President Trump has indicated that tariffs with the EU are "definitely happening," and expressed concerns about the UK's trade practices.

Industry analysts are assessing the potential consequences. David Gibson of MST Financial, on X, suggested that while the China tariff might not significantly affect the Nintendo Switch 2 in the U.S., tariffs on Vietnam could alter the situation. He also noted potential challenges for the PlayStation 5, suggesting that Sony might need to 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 and consumer reception of Nintendo's upcoming console, highlighting the broader economic climate as a significant factor.