The new wave of tariffs in the U.S. has imposed a 34% tax on goods from China. As expected, businesses are reacting quickly. Sigma has already announced a price increase, and it looks like Tamron will change its approach to producing lenses. There is a noticeable Tamron lens production shift, as they’re moving the lens production out of China.
US Tariffs Are Shaking Things Up
The point is that the tariffs are big issue right now. The U.S. imposed new tariffs on imports from China last month. Tamron felt that impact like all other companies, prompting Tamron’s lens production shift. During this current hot debate, you might have heard about Canon’s plan to increase their prices, specifically in the US market.
Yet, Tamron is going for a different approach. Instead of indulging in price hikes, they’re relocating some of their production away from China to avoid those extra fees.
Vietnam Is Gaining Ground
In February, Tamron launched production at its second factory in Vietnam. Don’t consider it as just a small venture. Right now, the distribution of Tamron’s production is this:
- 65% in China
- 25% in Vietnam
- 10% in Japan
DPReview reports that in 2028, Tamron might bring a shift in its approach. This means a more balanced approach with production distribution equally between China and Vietnam at 45% each. Meanwhile, Japan will maintain its share at 10%.
If you’re thinking it isn’t fruitful at all, think again maybe. I think it could lead to better pricing for a while. Lenses made in Vietnam or Japan have lower tariffs compared to those made in China. Ultimately, if Tamron inclines more towards these two countries, maybe your next lens won’t charge any unexpected tariff tax.
Tamron didn’t emphasize specifically that they’re shifting lens production away from China totally. However, Tamron lens production shift is gradually taking place. Currently, about 15% of their Photographic Products are made in China. A major contribution of 60% comes from Vietnam also. Rest of the remainder is sourced from Japan.
If you’re planning to buy any lens, don’t worry, they are already avoiding high tariffs. However, Tamron hasn’t specified how many parts are sourced from China. If your purchased lens has a label “Made in Vietnam,” some parts might still be made in China. Ultimately, it could impact pricing based on how tariffs are applied.
Cost Cuts and Caution
Tamron hasn’t modified the sales forecast for this year yet. Even though they’ve noticed a dip in the U.S. sales and a decrease in purchases from China, Tamron is being adaptable. Amidst the chaos, they still managed to raise their profits in the first quarter.
Tamron says that further cost reductions could help deal with the effects of tariffs. For now, they aren’t increasing prices, but that could change if the situation gets out of control. It seems like they aren’t very hopeful. Honestly, no one can be in such economic slowdown, and ongoing trade issues.
Final Thoughts
Despite challenges, Tamron has launched a new lens this year—the 18-300mm F3.5-6.3 Di III-A VC VXD. It can be paired with RF and Z mounts. Moreover, they have announced about six more lenses coming this year. Personally, I appreciate this consistency from Tamron. They not only know the market tactics, but also how to stay a step ahead of it.
For now, you might not see any big changes immediately while buying Tamron lens. But, maybe in the future, you may notice more lenses labeled “Made in Vietnam.” And I’d suggest you to keep an eye on prices. The ongoing US-China tariff situation is playing with us. But Tamron seems to be playing smarter by not alluring us.
So, it’s a good time to buy a Tamron lens. Because, later either shifts in production would lead to better prices or might increase tariffs. Let’s hope for the best!
[via DPReview; Image Credits: Tamron]
