Just recently, Nintendo faced a bit of a hiccup in their plans to open pre-orders for the much-anticipated Switch 2 in the U.S. The gaming giant conveyed to Tom’s Hardware that they’ll be holding off on the pre-order date initially set for April 9, 2025. This decision came right on the heels of the White House unveiling a series of extensive tariffs targeting a broad range of countries worldwide.
In an email statement, Nintendo explained, “We will not commence U.S. pre-orders for the Nintendo Switch 2 as planned on April 9, 2025, due to the need to evaluate the possible effects these tariffs could have, alongside changing market conditions. Rest assured, we will provide updates regarding the timing as soon as they become available. Please note, the console is still slated for its grand launch on June 5, 2025.”
The official reveal of the Switch 2 earlier in the week tagged the console with a price point of $449. Although Nintendo produces the consoles in China and Vietnam, the prior U.S. threats of imposing hefty import tariffs on Chinese goods seemed to hold little concern since they could alternatively source from Vietnam. This strategy initially allowed them to dodge the substantial tariffs that were applied to China earlier this year.
However, things took a surprising turn with the new tariffs. The sweeping nature and timing of the White House’s “Liberation Day” tariff decisions evidently blindsided Nintendo. In a move that shocked many, U.S. tariffs on Chinese imports were cranked up to a staggering 54%, while Vietnam, unexpectedly, faced a hefty 46% duty as well.
With these new tariffs, there’s a looming possibility that the advertised price could see a hike, given Vietnam’s increased export costs. This is a bit of a letdown for Nintendo enthusiasts eagerly awaiting the new model, especially considering the hefty 50% price bump over the original Switch. Nevertheless, there remains a sliver of hope that Nintendo might find a way to stick with the cited price when it officially launches in early June.
Rumors are swirling among Vietnamese journalists who suggest that the U.S.’s abrupt tariff decision against Vietnam might be a strategic move to bring Hanoi to the table for negotiations. Vietnam’s Deputy Prime Minister, Ho Duc Phoc, is expected to head to the U.S. soon. Should Vietnam manage to strike a deal, there’s potential for these tariffs to be eased, at least in part.
Still, if Vietnam’s 46% tariff holds when the June 5 launch rolls around, Nintendo may find itself with no option but to pass these extra costs onto consumers, hiking the console’s U.S. retail price. This prospect is bound to disappoint the brand’s dedicated fanbase. Yet, given the extensive scope of these tariffs, Nintendo is not alone in facing this challenging scenario.
