Nintendo recently announced a delay in opening pre-orders for the much-anticipated Switch 2 in the United States. This decision came on the heels of an announcement from the White House, revealing tariffs that span nearly every nation across the globe. Speaking with Tom’s Hardware, Nintendo explained that the pre-orders, initially set to begin on April 9, 2025, will now be postponed. The company is closely monitoring the potential effects of these tariffs and how changing market dynamics could influence the gaming console’s release. While the pre-order date remains uncertain, Nintendo assures fans that the official launch is still on track for June 5, 2025.
The unveiling of the Switch 2 earlier this week revealed a price tag of $449. Manufacturing partners for the console are based in China and Vietnam, which presents a logistical puzzle given the current U.S. trade environment. Although hefty tariffs have been a concern mainly with Chinese imports, Nintendo had the option of redirecting production through Vietnam to avoid these charges. However, with President Trump’s recent “Liberation Day” initiative imposing a 54% tariff on Chinese imports and a surprising 46% tariff on Vietnamese goods, the landscape has shifted dramatically.
These developments suggest a potential rise in the retail price of the Switch 2, considering the increased import taxes. This poses a challenge not only for Nintendo but also for consumers who are already looking at a 50% price increase from the original Switch model. While the situation is fluid, there’s hope that diplomatic negotiations could offer a reprieve. Vietnam’s Deputy Prime Minister, Ho Duc Phoc, is scheduled for discussions in the U.S., and there’s speculation that some concessions might lead to a reduction in tariffs.
However, if the high tariffs remain by the June release date, Nintendo and other companies caught in this crossfire might have little choice but to raise prices to absorb these additional costs. For Nintendo fans eagerly awaiting the Switch 2, this possibility of a price hike is a damper on the excitement, but it’s a hurdle many businesses are facing in this volatile economic climate.
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