The customs duties announced by Donald Trump risk making PCs much more expensive. This reduces growth forecasts for what is expected to be a record year.
2024 was a year of recovery for the PC industry. After two more difficult years, the PC industry grew by 7%. Canalys' figures are based on the US market, but globally the PC industry also had a good year. The outlook for 2025 is moderately positive, with an expected growth rate of 2%.
Made in China
Canalys expects upcoming US tariffs to impact the PC market. As soon as Donald Trump is sworn in as president, most products from China will be subject to high tariffs, up to 60%. It's bad luck for PC makers who produce laptop components in China.
Manufacturers are moving production to other countries, but this won't happen overnight. But taxes of up to 20% will also apply to products imported from other countries. Donald Trump wants to stimulate national production by “punishing” with taxes companies that produce abroad.
Put a spoke in wheel
Ultimately, it is the end users who will foot the bill. There Consumer Technology Association estimates that PC prices will rise sharply by 2025, up to 46%. Smartphones will also become up to 25% more expensive. Individuals and businesses will therefore think twice before investing in new devices.
The year 2025, however, promises to be a record year for the PC market. After a cautious introduction, the manufacturers intend to go all out with new “AI PCs”. But it is above all the imminent end of the still very popular Windows 10 which will decide many users to buy a new device. Will Donald Trump put obstacles in the way?
read also
