Sony has announced price hikes for some PlayStation 5 (PS5) gaming consoles in multiple markets, including the United Kingdom, Europe, Australia, and New Zealand. The price increases, effective Monday, come as the company grapples with what it describes as a “challenging economic environment,” citing high inflation and fluctuating exchange rates.
In a blog post confirming the price changes, Sony said the decision was made against a backdrop of global economic uncertainty. “This was a tough decision for us, but we believe it is necessary given the current economic conditions,” the company said.
Starting Monday, the price of the PS5 Digital Edition—Sony’s disc-free version of the console—will rise in the UK from £390 to £430. In Europe, the price jumps from €449 to €499.
Sony also confirmed price increases in Australia and New Zealand. The Standard PS5, which includes an Ultra HD Blu-ray disc drive, will now retail for AUD $829.95 in Australia and NZD $949.95 in New Zealand, while the PS5 Digital Edition will cost AUD $749.95 and NZD $859.95, respectively.
The price hikes come amid an ongoing global trade war and policy shifts impacting technology exports. Former U.S. President Donald Trump previously imposed tariffs affecting global manufacturing supply chains, leading to widespread disruption in semiconductor production and electronics exports. While some tariffs have been temporarily paused, the administration’s evolving approach to trade policy has created uncertainty for exporters.
Sony clarified that the price for the standard PlayStation 5 in the UK and Europe, as well as the PS5 Pro model released last year, will remain unchanged. Meanwhile, in a slight relief for consumers, the Disc Drive add-on for the PS5 will see a modest price reduction—now priced at €79.99 in Europe, £69.99 in the UK, AUD $124.95 in Australia, and NZD $139.95 in New Zealand.
The gaming giant did not specify whether additional markets would see price adjustments in the future. The PS5, first released in 2020, remains one of the most sought-after gaming consoles worldwide, despite supply chain disruptions and inflation-related pricing changes.