Just a few days back, ASUS announced that it would be increasing the price of its graphics cards and motherboards this year due to increased component costs and higher import tariffs/customs charges. There was a fair bit of backlash, but the decision won’t change and many other OEMs are likely to follow.
Update regarding MSRP pricing for ASUS components in 2021.
We have an announcement in regards to MSRP price changes that are effective in early 2021 for our award-winning series of graphic cards and motherboards. Our new MSRP reflects increases in cost for components. operating costs, and logistical activities plus a continuation of import tariffs. We worked closely with our supply and logistic partners to minimize price increases. ASUS greatly appreciates your continued business and support as we navigate through this time of unprecedented market change.
*additional models may see an increase as we moved further into Q1.Source
It turns out that the reason behind this price hike is the result of the US-China trade war. As per sources, the Chinese import tariff rebate expired with the start of the new year and the revised ones will be in the 8-25% range, thereby increasing the price of many major PC components. Although we can’t confirm just yet, it’s being speculated that Asian OEMs such as ASUS, Gigabyte, PNY, and Zotac may increase their GPU prices by as much as $80.
This price hike won’t be limited to just graphics cards, however, and will also affect motherboards, storage drives, power supplies, and most other computer components as well.
