Sony Raises PlayStation 5 Prices to Cover Up Tariff Fallout
Sony has announced a significant price increase for the PlayStation 5 Digital & Blu-ray edition in several key markets. This action is driven by economic challenges and the fallout from recent tariffs in the U.S., according to Sony. Effective immediately, the console's price has risen by approximately 25% in regions including Europe, the United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand.
New Pricing Details
Region
Model
New Price
Previous Price
Change
Europe
PS5 Digital Edition
€499.99
€449.99
↑ €50
Europe
Standard PS5 (Blu-ray)
No Change
No Change
–
Australia
PS5 Digital Edition
AUD $749.95
AUD $649.95
↑ AUD $100
Australia
Standard PS5 (Blu-ray)
AUD $829.95
AUD $799.95
↑ AUD $30
New Zealand
PS5 Digital Edition
NZD $859.95
NZD $769.96
↑ NZD $89.99
New Zealand
Standard PS5 (Blu-ray)
NZD $949.95
NZD $899.95
↑ NZD $50
These adjustments mark a substantial increase from the original launch prices in 2020. Notably, the standard PS5 model with a disc drive and the PS5 Pro remain unaffected in most regions.
Tariffs and Economic Pressures
The price hikes come in the wake of a 24% tariff imposed by the U.S. on Japanese electronics imports, effective April 2, 2025. Although these tariffs have been temporarily suspended for 90 days, uncertainty has disrupted global supply chains. Sony attributes the price increases to this "challenging economic environment," which includes high inflation and fluctuating exchange rates.
Sony said it will hike the price of its PlayStation 5 console in markets in Europe, Britain, Australia and New Zealand, citing high inflation and fluctuating exchange rates https://t.co/46b7KOPJjopic.twitter.com/Yl8TNX26jN
The sudden price hike has upset many gamers, especially in countries not affected by the U.S. tariffs. People are asking why they have to pay more for trade rules made in another country.
"Sony may be attempting to compensate for potential losses in the U.S. market by increasing prices in other regions."
Despite the backlash, Sony maintains that these measures are necessary to navigate the current economic landscape. The company has not indicated whether further price adjustments will occur in the near future.
Have you been affected by the recent PS5 price increase? Share your experiences in the comments below.