Nintendo recently announced a delay for U.S. pre-orders of the anticipated Switch 2 console, following new tariff policies from the White House. Originally set to begin on April 9, 2025, pre-orders will now be postponed as Nintendo evaluates how these tariffs might affect their costs and market strategy. The release date remains June 5, 2025.
Officially presented just last week, the Switch 2 will be priced at $449. Manufacturing takes place in both China and Vietnam, but the changing tariff landscape has complicated matters. Even though past tariffs have primarily affected Chinese imports, with Vietnam now facing unexpected increases, shipping consoles from Vietnam to the U.S. might no longer offer a financial workaround as it once did.
The surprise announcement of widespread tariffs came soon after Nintendo’s unveiling, creating an immediate impact. The United States increased tariffs on Chinese merchandise to a hefty 54%, and, in a twist, goods from Vietnam now also face a significant 46% duty. This development implies that the previously announced console price might have to be adjusted to accommodate these extra costs.
This is quite a predicament, considering the Switch 2 was already set to be more expensive than its predecessor. There’s hope that some diplomatic negotiations might alleviate the situation. Vietnam’s Deputy Prime Minister, Ho Duc Phoc, is traveling to the U.S. soon, which could open discussions to possibly reduce these new tariffs.
Should these taxes stay as they are by the console’s release, consumers could see an increase in the retail price in America. If prices rise due to these tariffs, Nintendo will unfortunately stand among many other companies navigating similar challenges in this evolving trade environment. Nonetheless, U.S.-based fans are keeping their fingers crossed for a positive resolution.
