The board game and miniatures industry is facing significant challenges due to the recent tariffs imposed by the United States. These tariffs have increased production costs and created uncertainty in supply chains, affecting both major manufacturers and independent studios.

According to a report by the Toy Association, the new tariffs could result in an average 25% increase in production costs for tabletop game publishers that rely on Chinese manufacturing. This increase is particularly concerning for small and medium-sized companies that operate on tighter margins and may struggle to absorb these additional expenses (Toy Association, 2024).

The Impact of Tariffs on the Industry

• Rising Costs: Tariffs of up to 25% on imports from China have made miniatures and essential components more expensive. According to the National Retail Federation, toy prices could increase by up to 56% due to these tariffs (NRF, 2024).
• Dependence on External Suppliers: Most board games and miniatures are manufactured in China. With the current tariffs, companies like Hasbro have announced plans to reduce their reliance on Chinese production, aiming to lower it to below 40% over the next two years (The Wall Street Journal, 2024).
• Production Delays: Delivery times have increased significantly, with shipping disruptions adding 6–8 weeks to production schedules (BoardGameWire, 2024). This uncertainty makes it harder for publishers to meet deadlines and stock retailers on time.

SiOCAST: A More Competitive Local Manufacturing Alternative

The current economic situation in the United States, with the new tariffs imposed by the Trump administration, has created an ideal scenario for SiOCAST to establish itself as a technological alternative for manufacturers of miniatures, board games, and other industries. Our plastic injection molding technology in silicone molds not only allows manufacturers to break free from dependence on China but also offers a more efficient, flexible, and cost-effectiveproduction solution.

SiOCAST in the United States

SiOCAST is headquartered in Spain, but we also have an official office in the United States, allowing us to better support North American customers with logistics, customer service, and financing solutions. With our new financing service in the U.S., manufacturers can now acquire SiOCAST technology with flexible payment plans, making in-house production more accessible and cost-efficient than ever before.

Real-World Data: The Experience of U.S. Customers

These insights come directly from our conversations with manufacturers in the U.S. who have already adopted SiOCAST technology. Some of these companies operate a single unit, while others have scaled up their production with up to five machines. Across the board, they report higher-quality production and significantly lower costs compared to importing from China.

A recent study by GAMA (Game Manufacturers Association) found that 80% of tabletop publishers are looking for alternative production methods to offset increased costs and supply chain disruptions. SiOCAST provides a proven solution, as manufacturers who have switched to our system have reported cost reductions of up to 40% (GAMA, 2024).

Although the unit price of a part manufactured in China may appear lower at first glance, when considering all associated costs—mold costs, shipping, tariffs, and fluctuations in these rates—the picture changes dramatically. Once the parts arrive at U.S. warehouses, the final cost of imported parts can be up to 20% higher than those produced locally using SiOCAST technology.

How to Get Started with SiOCAST

With our new financing program available in the United States, SiOCAST technology is now even more accessible to manufacturers looking to eliminate tariffs and take control of their production. Whether you’re a small independent studio or a large-scale manufacturer, SiOCAST enables you to create high-quality miniatures quickly and affordably.

Companies that have adopted SiOCAST have reported cost reductions of up to 40% while improving delivery times and supply chain resilience. Now more than ever, investing in local, in-house production is a strategic decision that enhances competitiveness and long-term sustainability.

If you want to learn more about how SiOCAST can help you optimize your production and avoid tariffs, schedule a free demo with our team today and discover how our technology can transform your business.

Don’t let tariffs limit your growth. Take control of your production with SiOCAST.