Nintendo Delays Switch 2 Pre-Orders in the U.S. Due to Trump’s New Tariffs

Nintendo’s decision to postpone U.S. pre-orders for the Switch 2 underscores the immediate impact of the recently announced tariffs by President Donald Trump. These tariffs impose a 24% duty on Japanese imports, directly affecting Nintendo’s operations.

Originally, Nintendo planned to open pre-orders for the Switch 2 on April 9, 2025. However, in light of the new tariffs, the company released a statement:

“Pre-orders for Nintendo Switch 2 in the U.S. will not start April 9, 2025, in order to assess the potential impact of tariffs and evolving market conditions.”

Despite this delay in pre-orders, Nintendo has confirmed that the official launch date of June 5, 2025, remains unchanged. The console is priced at $449.99, with flagship titles like “Mario Kart World” retailing at $79.99.

The tariffs in question are part of a broader trade policy introduced by President Trump on April 2, 2025. Dubbed a “Declaration of Economic Independence,” these measures include a baseline 10% tariff on nearly all imports, with specific higher rates for certain countries: 34% on Chinese goods, 20% on European Union products, and 24% on Japanese imports.

These tariffs aim to address trade imbalances and encourage domestic manufacturing. However, they also pose challenges for companies like Nintendo, which rely heavily on international supply chains and manufacturing. The increased costs from tariffs could either be absorbed by the company or passed on to consumers, potentially affecting sales and market competitiveness.

Nintendo’s proactive approach in delaying pre-orders reflects a strategic move to evaluate and navigate these new economic challenges. While the launch date remains set, the situation highlights the broader implications of international trade policies on the tech industry and consumers alike.