Sony To Increase Prices

• DL Byron
• 1 week ago
• Categories: Cameras, Lenses
• Tags: photography, sony, sony alpha, sony cameras, sony mirrorless, sony mirrorless pro

Sony to increase prices on several of its products in the United States starting May 19, 2025, in response to new tariffs imposed on Chinese imports. The first product affected is the Sony FE 400–800mm F/6.3–8 G OSS lens, which will see a $700 price hike, rising from $2,898 to $3,599.

Additional products are expected to follow as Sony adjusts its pricing to reflect the increased costs of doing business under the new trade rules. (via Imaging Resource where I contribute.)

Components Originate in China

Sony’s higher-end lenses are typically manufactured in Japan with many components and accessories still originate from China. The U.S. government currently imposes a 10% tariff on goods from Japan and a much steeper 30% tariff on Chinese imports. These rising costs are putting pressure on camera manufacturers and distributors alike.

Imaging Industry Affected

The broader photo and video industry isn’t immune either. DJI, for example, recently canceled the U.S. release of its Mavic 4 Pro drone, citing the prohibitive cost of selling the China-made product under current U.S. tariffs.

As a result, photographers and videographers looking to upgrade their gear may want to act quickly—especially if they can find inventory imported before the price hikes go into effect. Alternatively, some may consider waiting for the market to settle.

Traveling to nearby countries such as Mexico or Canada to purchase camera gear is another workaround—but only to a limited extent. U.S. Customs enforces a $2,500 duty-free cap on personal purchases made abroad. Exceeding this limit will result in duties being applied upon re-entry into the country..

With rising costs and limited workarounds, photographers may need to plan their next gear purchase with extra care.

Gear Price Hike

`Table compiled by Imaging Resource.