Anbernic Suspends U.S. Shipments Amid New Tariff Challenges

Retro handheld console maker Anbernic has paused all U.S. orders.

As reported by The Verge, the company cited "recent U.S. tariff policy changes" and advised customers to "opt for products shipped from our U.S. warehouse, which remain unaffected by import duties and are available for confident purchase." Orders requiring shipment from China will not be fulfilled.

Anbernic is widely recognized for its affordable Chinese Game Boy-style devices, typically drop-shipped from China upon release, with additional stock stored in U.S. warehouses.

Anbernic's website allows customers to select shipping from either the U.S. or China, but not all products are stocked in the U.S., meaning items like the Anbernic RG CubeXX or RG 406H are currently unavailable to U.S. customers.

The Trump administration has imposed tariffs as high as 145% on Chinese imports, with warnings that tariffs on certain goods, such as electric vehicles, could climb to 245% when combined with existing levies. While some supply chain companies may absorb these costs, they are often passed on to consumers. Gamers are already facing higher prices for tech and gaming products, including Nintendo Switch 2 accessories and gaming laptops.

Anbernic stated it is "actively seeking solutions" for customers facing custom fees "during this transition period."

Nintendo revealed the Switch 2 in a 60-minute Nintendo Direct earlier this month. Initially, pre-orders were slated to begin in early April in the U.S., but tariff uncertainties in the U.S. and Canada prompted Nintendo to postpone pre-orders to April 24. During this period, Nintendo maintained the $449.99 price for the Switch 2 console and games but increased prices for most Switch 2 accessories.