Nintendo’s upcoming Switch 2 console is facing a big problem because of a possible 145% import tariff in the U.S.
While things like smartphones and computers don’t have these extra fees, video game consoles do. This puts Nintendo in a tough spot, causing them to delay pre-orders in the U.S. and Canada.
They’re trying to figure out how these tariffs will impact the pricing and availability of the Switch 2. As a result, getting your hands on the console at launch might be extremely limited.
Let’s take a closer look at what this could mean for the Switch 2 and its buyers.
Background on the Tariff Situation
The U.S. government’s new tariff rules have slapped hefty import duties on things like the Nintendo Switch 2. According to Nikkei, one of the main component suppliers for these companies warned them that importing the Nintendo Switch 2 to the U.S. will hurt their wallets big time.
While products like smartphones and laptops are getting a break, gaming consoles are still hit with a huge 145% tariff on imports from China. This is because consoles are classified as toys, not essential tech.
Some parts of these devices are excluded from the high tariffs for now, but they still face a 20% surcharge, with a chance of even higher costs if semiconductor tariffs come in.
Companies like Nintendo are now looking for ways to adjust their manufacturing and distribution plans to handle the extra costs.
Nintendo Switch 2 Production Details
So the thing is Nintendo makes most of its Switch 2 consoles in China, but because of a big 145% U.S. import tax, they’ve started moving some production to Vietnam.
About a third of the consoles are now being put together there, and these Vietnam-made units are getting a lower 10% tariff thanks to a break in the higher tariffs for the next 90 days.
To prepare for the June 5 launch, Nintendo has already sent over one million of the Vietnam-made consoles to the U.S. to build up stock.
But, most of the production is still in China, and if tariffs continue and countries with lower rates cannot ramp up production fast enough, the Nintendo Switch 2 supply in the U.S. may become extremely limited. As a result, consumers could face higher prices and fewer options when trying to purchase the console.
What Will Be the Impact on Pricing and Pre-Orders?
Nintendo had first planned to sell the Switch 2 for $449.99, with pre-orders starting on April 9, 2025. But things changed when new U.S. tariffs kicked in.
These tariffs now apply to imports from China and Vietnam, where most Switch 2 consoles are made. Because of this, Nintendo hit pause on pre-orders in the U.S. and Canada to figure out how these changes might affect the price and the market. Still, the launch is sticking to the same date—June 5, 2025.
The Entertainment Software Association (ESA) isn’t happy about the tariffs either. As a major voice for the gaming industry, the ESA is worried about how these new rules from President Donald Trump could hurt business. They said the new tariffs on video game consoles and related gear will have a “real and detrimental impact” on the industry.
The ESA also pointed out that these price hikes could hurt buyers and slow down the growth the gaming world brings to the U.S. economy.
