Pre-Orders for Nintendo Switch 2 Delayed in US Amid Tariff Concerns and Changing Market Dynamics

Nintendo has recently announced that pre-orders for the Nintendo Switch 2 in the United States have been pushed back beyond the originally planned date of April 9. This move comes as the company evaluates the impact of significant economic policy changes on the market.

In a statement to the press, Nintendo explained, “Pre-orders for the Nintendo Switch 2 in the U.S. will no longer begin on April 9, 2025, as we intend to assess the potential influence of tariffs and evolving market conditions. We will notify everyone of the updated schedule at a later time. However, the official launch date remains June 5, 2025.”

The delay can be traced back to a sweeping set of tariffs introduced by U.S. President Donald Trump on April 2. These new tariffs target numerous countries, including Japan, where Nintendo is headquartered, as well as Vietnam. Although Nintendo’s main manufacturing operations occur in China and Vietnam, the latter became a significant site after the company shifted some production there in anticipation of tariffs on China. Vietnam now faces a hefty 46% tariff, while China is seeing an additional 34% tariff. These additional costs are likely to affect the price of importing the Nintendo Switch 2.

This development aligns with significant global economic challenges, exemplified by JP Morgan’s recent increase in recession risk to 60%. The ripple effects of these tariffs are expected to alter both import and export dynamics, potentially slowing growth across numerous regions.

For American consumers eagerly awaiting the Nintendo Switch 2, this could mean steeper prices when it hits the shelves. Given the current economic strain and high living costs, this news might be difficult to digest. Unfortunately, we still need to wait a bit longer to understand fully how U.S. buyers will be affected.

Is this change causing you to rethink your plans to purchase a Nintendo Switch 2 at launch? Share your thoughts with us below!