Nintendo Switch 2 Hits Mainland China via Hong Kong Parallel Imports on Launch Day

Nintendo Switch 2 Debuts in Mainland China via Parallel Imports from Hong Kong on Release Day On June 5, 2025, Nintendo enthusiasts in mainland China witnessed the immediate availability of the Nintendo Switch 2—not through official channels, but via parallel imports sourced from neighboring Hong Kong.

The simultaneous arrival of Nintendo’s latest console in the mainland, coinciding exactly with the platform’s global release, underscores the robust demand and dedicated retail network that exists within China, where direct official distribution of Nintendo consoles remains limited. According to industry sources and verified retailer listing data, game shops across China swiftly stocked Nintendo Switch 2 units, physical game titles, and a variety of accessories for eager fans.

These retailers, capitalizing on Hong Kong’s early and reliable access to Nintendo hardware, ensured all inventory was plentiful and accessible on day one.

Notably, several major stores in urban markets were seen offering high-demand bundles like the Nintendo Switch 2 Mario Kart World set—a package that has proven popular in other regions as well. One prominent game shop in mainland China was reported selling the Nintendo Switch 2 Mario Kart World set at RMB4,080 (approximately USD568).

This price is roughly USD68 higher than the official retail price in the United States, reflecting typical costs associated with parallel import fees, logistics, and heightened demand.

Despite the premium, local interest for the Nintendo Switch 2 remains high, with buyers eager for immediate access to both new hardware and notable launch software such as Mario Kart World. The phenomenon of parallel imports—where products are brought into a country through channels outside official distribution networks—has long enabled Chinese consumers to stay abreast of global gaming trends.

Given Nintendo’s continued lack of a robust, direct distribution infrastructure in mainland China (outside of select licensed releases in partnership with Tencent), many gamers rely on Hong Kong as a conduit for the latest Nintendo hardware and titles.

It’s a testament to the strong enthusiasm for the Nintendo brand and for new gaming technology like the Switch 2. Nintendo Switch 2 marks the next generation of Nintendo hardware, building on the record-breaking success of the original Nintendo Switch, which has sold over 125 million units worldwide as of March 2024.

With continued enthusiasm in China—evidenced by swift retail activity surrounding the Hong Kong launch—Nintendo’s reach in the region continues to grow, albeit through unconventional channels.

As of today, Chinese gamers can enjoy the new Nintendo Switch 2 console, its accessories, and exclusive launch titles, thanks to the thriving parallel import ecosystem.

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