US video games trade body the Entertainment Software Association (ESA) has asked to be consulted on future tariffs from president Donald Trump.

In a statement to Kotaku, the organisation said that the controversial tariffs would hit regular Americans hard. This is due to the fact that the industry relies heavily on components from abroad, including China, upon which the Trump administration has placed a 10 per cent tariff. There were also tariffs set to be placed on goods from Mexico and Canada – 25 per cent each – which have since been frozen. 

“Tariffs on video game devices and related products would impact Americans of all ages across the country,” the ESA wrote. 

“We urge the administration to consult with the private sector in a transparent process to avoid causing significant harm to everyday Americans and to one of the fastest growing entertainment sectors in the United States.”

In an updated statement to VGC, the ESA added: “Video games are one of the most popular and beloved forms of entertainment for Americans of all ages. Tariffs on video game devices and related products would negatively impact hundreds of millions of Americans and would harm the industry’s significant contributions to the US economy. We look forward to working with the Administration and Congress to find ways to sustain the economic growth supported by our sector.”