Sigma Lenses Cost 10% More Due to Tariffs

Tariffs have been quite a challenge for many manufacturers around the world. Despite the 90-day pause, many countries have to pay a standard 10% tariff on their goods being sold in the US, with China standing at 30%. This led to the rise of the camera and lens prices, with Sony, Nikon, and Leica gear MRP seeing an increase in the US. Just last month, we reported that Sigma lenses, which are made in Aizu, Japan, will also notice a price rise starting in June. It appears that the tariffs have now come into effect.

First reported by Photo Rumors, a few lenses by the company have seen a rise on retail platforms such as Adorama and Amazon. Overall, there is a standard increase of 10%, which is not a lot, but can hurt some budding photographers.

While most manufacturers are still keeping an eye on the situation in the United States, there are some who are hoping that the tariffs will come to an end for good. This follows after the U.S. Court of International Trade, a federal court, which decided to block President Donald Trump’s tariffs due to the 1977 International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA). The U.S. Court of International Trade noted last week that tariffs are unlawful under the 1977 act, which Trump initially used as a shield while taxing other regions.

Although the tariffs are blocked in some cases, there has been no word on when the prices will return to their original rates. At the moment, everything depends on what Trump’s next steps are. Perhaps, the prices may increase, despite the judge’s ruling. Or perhaps, the President gives up this endeavour.

Either way, Japanese and Chinese manufacturers will have to keep a close eye on the situation in the region. Customers, too, who have been waiting to buy new gear, will have to wait it out. July 4 is not that far away, which means they may get Sigma lenses at a reduced price. However, until then, it is better to see what the US federal court suggests.