Pre-orders for Nintendo Switch 2 Postponed in US Amid Tariff and Market Concerns

Nintendo has announced a delay in the US pre-orders for the Nintendo Switch 2, pushing the date beyond the initially scheduled April 9. This decision comes as the company carefully considers the impact of recent shifts in economic policy on the market.

In a statement to the press, Nintendo clarified, “Pre-orders for the Nintendo Switch 2 in the U.S. will not commence on April 9, 2025, as we evaluate the effects of tariffs and the changing market landscape. We will provide an updated timeline at a later date. However, the official launch remains set for June 5, 2025.”

The delay follows a significant policy announcement from US President Donald Trump on April 2, introducing a broad array of tariffs affecting countries around the globe, including Japan and Vietnam. While Nintendo’s headquarters are located in Japan, much of the production for its hardware takes place in China and, crucially, Vietnam. This strategic relocation had been driven by anticipations of US tariffs on Chinese imports. Vietnam now faces steep tariffs of 46%, while China deals with an additional 34% on their goods, potentially affecting the cost of importing the Nintendo Switch 2 into the US.

These economic shifts coincide with rising global financial uncertainty. Notably, JP Morgan has adjusted its US recession risk to 60%, indicating potential impacts on sales and consumer spending. These tariffs and economic changes are likely to alter import dynamics and growth projections worldwide.

For American consumers, this means the Nintendo Switch 2 might hit the shelves at a higher price than originally expected. In these tough economic times, with living expenses soaring, this isn’t the best news. Unfortunately, it seems we’ll need to standby and brace ourselves to see just how much more this gaming console might cost.

Has this announcement influenced your decision about getting the Nintendo Switch 2 at launch? We’d love to hear your thoughts!