Sony Hikes PlayStation 5 Prices in Australia, New Zealand and EMEA Amid Tariff and Inflation Pressures
Sony Interactive Entertainment (SIE) has announced a price increase for the PlayStation 5 in several global markets, including Europe, the Middle East and Africa (EMEA), as well as Australia and New Zealand. The new pricing, which takes effect from April 14, is a response to economic challenges such as inflation, volatile currency exchange rates, and geopolitical trade tensions.
In a statement on Monday, SIE said the decision to adjust the recommended retail price (RRP) was a difficult one, but necessary given the current economic climate. The company confirmed that while the standard PS5 model with Ultra HD Blu-ray disc drive will see no change in most regions, the Digital Edition will be impacted.
Updated PS5 Prices:
Europe:
- PS5 Digital Edition: €499.99
- (No change to the standard PS5 with disc drive)
United Kingdom:
- PS5 Digital Edition: £429.99
- (No change to the standard PS5 with disc drive)
Australia:
- Standard PS5 (disc drive): AUD $829.95
- PS5 Digital Edition: AUD $749.95
New Zealand:
- Standard PS5 (disc drive): NZD $949.95
- PS5 Digital Edition: NZD $859.95
Despite the increase, Sony is reducing the price of its Disc Drive for PS5 starting April 14:
- Europe: €79.99
- UK: £69.99
- Australia: AUD $124.95
- New Zealand: NZD $139.95
Broader Trade Impact
The move comes in the wake of sweeping new tariffs imposed by former U.S. President Donald Trump on goods imported from key trading partners. The tariffs have placed additional pressure on global electronics makers, particularly those with manufacturing operations in China — a key production hub for both Sony and Nintendo.
Recent analysis by Bloomberg Intelligence indicates that Nintendo may follow Sony’s lead by increasing console prices, as it also faces a cumulative 145% duty on U.S.-bound shipments produced in China. However, Nintendo’s growing manufacturing base in Vietnam may offer temporary relief due to a 90-day reprieve from the new tariffs.
Sony has yet to announce whether similar price hikes will be introduced in other regions, including North America.
