The world of collectibles is facing a new challenge. Good Smile Company, the renowned Japanese company known for its Nendoroid figures, figurines, and merchandise derived from franchises such as Hatsune Miku, Fate, Attack on Titan, and My Hero Academia, has announced the temporary suspension of shipments to the United States due to new restrictions imposed by Japan Post, a direct consequence of an executive order from the US government.
But Good Smile isn't the only one affected: this situation is having a widespread impact on the otaku and gaming sector in North America.
The origin of the problem: new customs regulations and tariffs on takeoff
The root of the conflict lies in an executive order issued by the U.S. government on July 30, 2025, entitled "Termination of De Minimis Treatment for All Countries." This new regulation eliminates the tax exemption for imports intended for personal use, marking a significant shift in trade policies. Added to this are the tariffs implemented since April 2025, which are affecting the market for imported products, especially those from China.
Since April 2, the United States has imposed a base tariff of 10% on all imports, with additional "reciprocal tariffs" implemented starting April 9. The figures are alarming: Vietnam and Cambodia face increases of +46% and +49%, while Japan and China see increases of +24% and +34% respectively. In China's case, the cumulative tariff can reach up to 145%. China has responded with countermeasures, imposing tariffs of 125% on US products in a clear trade escalation. This situation directly affects companies such as Good Smile Company, Kotobukiya, and Bandai, among other Asian manufacturers.
Good Smile Company Forced to Stop Shipments and Pre-Sales
Given this situation, Japan Post has suspended the acceptance of small packages, parcels, and EMS shipments to the United States. Good Smile Company confirmed that all shipments to the U.S., without exception, are suspended until further notice, although the company assures it is exploring alternative methods to resume operations as soon as possible. The uncertainty has also forced the company to pause new pre-orders and delay shipments of existing products.
Not Just Good Smile: Other Companies in Trouble
The impact isn't limited to Good Smile Company. Marvelous USA announced that the premium "Earth Dancer" edition of Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma, which was scheduled to be released on June 5, will be delayed due to increased tariffs on a key component manufactured in China—a traditional fan. The imposition of these tariffs results in a 20% increase in the product's price. Even pre-orders for the new Nintendo Switch 2, while not affecting its release date (June 5), were also affected by the tariffs.
Higher Prices and Greater Uncertainty and an Uncertain Future in North America
What does this mean for anime fans and collectors? They face a complicated situation that includes higher prices due to additional taxes, delays in releases and deliveries, possible cancellations of limited editions, and increased uncertainty when purchasing imported figures and merchandise. The volatility of the situation, with the possibility of tariffs suddenly increasing or decreasing, adds an extra layer of complexity to purchasing imported products.
The US administration has indicated that these policies can change rapidly depending on the responses of other countries, keeping the otaku and gamer community in North America in a constant state of alert for any new updates.
The future of collecting in the US remains uncertain, but the community is hoping for a logistical solution that will overcome these restrictions and guarantee access to their favorite figures and merchandise without compromising their budget or patience. The impact ranges from Nendoroid figures to special editions of video games like Rune Factory and affects the availability of imported products.
