Pre-orders for Nintendo’s Switch 2 Postponed Due to Trump Tariffs, But Launch Still Set for June 5

Nintendo recently announced a delay in opening pre-orders for the Switch 2 in the United States, following a recent move by the White House to implement tariffs affecting numerous countries worldwide. Speaking to Tom’s Hardware, Nintendo shared, “We’re postponing U.S. pre-orders for the Nintendo Switch 2, initially set for April 9, 2025, to evaluate the impact of these tariffs and shifting market dynamics. We plan to provide an update later, but the release date remains June 5, 2025.”

The unveiling of the Switch 2 happened just last Wednesday, with a launch price set at $449. Given that Nintendo produces its consoles in China and Vietnam, the company could still bypass hefty U.S. import duties on Chinese products by opting to ship from Vietnam. However, the new sweeping tariffs introduced by the current administration adjusted these plans.

Just hours after the Switch 2’s debut, tariffs under President Trump’s “Liberation Day” plan took the industry by surprise. While China’s import tariffs surged to 54%, Vietnam wasn’t spared, taking a hit with a 46% duty. This sudden change might affect the Switch 2’s pricing, initially set higher than the original model. Despite this, there’s cautious optimism that the price will hold steady when sales kick off in June.

Rumors from Vietnamese media suggest that the tariffs are a strategic move to prompt Vietnam into discussions with the U.S., potentially easing the duties in exchange for concessions. Vietnam’s Deputy Prime Minister, Ho Duc Phoc, is set to visit the U.S. shortly, which might open the door for negotiations to reduce the tariff burden.

However, if no progress is made before June 5 and the tariffs remain unchanged, Nintendo might have to raise the Switch 2’s price for American consumers, an outcome likely to frustrate fans. That said, Nintendo is certainly not alone in navigating this complex trade landscape, as many companies are grappling with similar challenges.