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 controversial import tariffs.

In a statement to IGN, the ESA emphasized the need for dialogue with the private sector "to maintain the economic growth fostered by our industry." 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 substantial contribution to the U.S. economy. The ESA expressed its willingness to work with the administration and Congress to ensure continued economic growth.

The ESA represents major players in the video game industry, 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 "definitely happening," and expressed uncertainty regarding potential tariffs on Britain. He cited concerns about the UK and EU's trade practices.

Analysts are assessing the potential industry 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 this. He also noted potential challenges for the PlayStation 5, suggesting that Sony might increase non-China production to offset the impact.

Joost van Dreunen, author of the Super Joost newsletter, in a recent IGN interview, discussed the potential influence of tariffs on the price and consumer reception of Nintendo's new console, emphasizing the broader economic context.