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Since the announcement of tariffs, things have been shaky across various industries. Rising prices and an uncertain future are some of the factors that are affecting business, with the brunt being the most on smaller businesses. The photo industry, in that regard, has its own crisis. With Canon, Leica, and Fujifilm hinting at a price increase, it proves that no one is safe. Joining this fray is Sigma, which recently announced that it will be increasing the price of its lenses from the coming month. Here is what you should know.
In a new press release, Sigma America’s President, Mark Amir-Hamzeh, said that Sigma will be increasing prices in the United States from June. Here is a look at the message:
Dear Sigma customers,
Thank you for your continued support and trust in Sigma. We are are sorry to inform you of an upcoming pricing adjustment to our products, effective June 2, 2025.
Due to the recent implementation of government-imposed tariffs, our costs at Sigma America have increased substantially. We have made every effort to absorb these added expenses, but the sustained impact of the tariffs now necessitates a price increase to ensure we can continue delivering the quality and service you expect.
Key details:
Current pricing will remain in effect for all orders placed and fulfilled by May 31, 2025, subject to product availability.
New pricing will take effect on June 2, 2025, and will apply to all new orders and any unfulfilled items.
We understand this is difficult news to hear, and please know this decision was not made lightly. We have always prided ourselves on delivering unmatched value to our customers, and we are doing everything we can to continue to do that while providing the same service and product excellence.
We sincerely appreciate your understanding and continued partnership.
Since Japan, like other countries (excluding China), has a 10% tariff, it means all the prices will increase by that much. In addition, the tariff will be applied to products imported from Japan, and in Sigma’s case, the lenses are made in Aizu, Japan. However, we aren’t sure if Sigma is coming up with ways to ensure the price hike is not too much. For instance, Canon indicated their price hike will not be too great as they intend to find ways to keep the prices low. This will be achieved through automation and the absorption of tariffs across various portfolios. But if Sigma does increase by 10%, then Sigma BF, which is around $2100 on Amazon, can cost about $2310. Since we aren’t sure if Sigma will go with 10%, it remains to be seen what they actually come up with.
However, the more concerning part is that if countries like Japan do not win over Donald Trump, tariffs may return to their original number, in Japan’s case, 24%. Until then, we have to see how much of a change political strife or consolation can have on the world.
