Nintendo Switch 2 Pricing Remains in Flux Amid Temporary Tariff Reductions
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Published on: April 12, 2025
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Nintendo Switch 2 Pricing Remains in Flux Amid Temporary Tariff Reductions
Following heightened anticipation after the recent Switch 2 Direct, Nintendo’s next-generation console, the Nintendo Switch 2, has faced ongoing scrutiny over its price point and pre-order delays.
The controversy stems not only from community reactions but also from tangible business hurdles, notably tariff fluctuations impacting North American markets.
Nintendo, long known for its global hardware successes with milestones like the Nintendo Switch surpassing 130 million units sold, now finds itself navigating a complex international trade environment as it readies the Switch 2 for launch.
Shortly after the Switch 2 Direct event, Nintendo postponed pre-orders for the Switch 2 system in both the United States and Canada.
The company cited rising tariffs imposed by the US as the primary reason.
These tariffs—economic measures set to impact imports from various countries—have directly affected Nintendo’s ability to confirm launch pricing and availability for its latest flagship hardware in key North American territories.
As of today, most countries have temporarily reduced tariffs on relevant imports, dropping rates to 10% for the next 90 days.
China, however, remains an exception, with significantly higher tariffs still in place.
This provisional reduction, while providing a temporary respite, only partially alleviates the logistical and financial challenges Nintendo faces ahead of the Nintendo Switch 2’s debut.
Industry research firm Niko Partners weighed in on the situation, highlighting the practical effects of the tariff policies.
According to their statement, with tariffs on Vietnam currently reduced for a 90-day window, they expect Nintendo to absorb the 10% tariff in order to keep the Nintendo Switch 2's intended launch price at $450.
The firm also cautioned that, should tariffs increase again after this period, Nintendo may need to adjust the hardware’s retail price accordingly.
Niko Partners described these developments as a warning of the complex global realities hardware manufacturers face in 2024 and beyond.
Despite the current uncertainty, Nintendo is expected to announce new timing for Nintendo Switch 2 pre-orders in the US and Canada.
As the company works to stabilize pricing and logistics amid shifting trade landscapes, consumers and retailers alike are encouraged to stay tuned for official updates from Nintendo regarding both pre-order availability and any possible future price revisions.
The Nintendo Switch 2 remains one of the most anticipated hardware launches in the gaming industry, building upon the hybrid console’s legacy on platforms like the eShop and physical retail.
As new details emerge from both Nintendo and its international partners, further information will be shared to keep industry stakeholders and passionate gamers informed on one of 2024’s most-watched tech stories.
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