Putting the words "Leica" and "Cheap" in the same headline is usually an oxymoron, but the company has just announced that it will be selling "Made in Portugal" versions of nine popular M-mount lenses in order to bypass a controversial US tariff established last year, making these lenses more affordable for US buyers.
President Trump has announced that a fresh wave of tariffs will be imposed on goods imported from China beginning September 1st. The 10% tariff—which is in addition to the 25% tariffs already in effect—may mean increased prices on any cameras, lenses, or other photography gear imported to the United States from China.
If you live in the United States, you may be surprised to hear that you'll pay a premium to buy the latest Sony FE mount lens. As pointed out in a recent report by Sony Alpha Rumors, the new Sony FE 35mm f/1.8 lens is selling for about 19% less in Canada than it is in the US, which has the photo community wondering if the latest round of Trump tariffs are to blame.