I also think there is a price hike. When I was in HKG back in mar, I was looking for a 35mm f/1.8 dx lens. It cost about $250 after conversion. Wanted to buy but they did not had any stocks then. When I return to HKG again last month hoping to buy it, i was surprised that the price have increased to $310. With a limited warranty, it is better fir me to buy it in SGP.
I believe nikon did a price increase.