Friday brought unexpected news for gaming enthusiasts as Nintendo announced the suspension of preorders for its upcoming Switch (NYSE:SWCH) 2 console in the United States, originally scheduled to begin next Wednesday. This decision comes as the company assesses the potential effects of newly imposed tariffs by President Donald Trump on Japanese imports.
Nintendo confirmed that the launch date for the Switch 2 remains set for June 5, 2025, despite the delay in preorder availability. The announcement followed the introduction of the Switch 2 just two days prior, which is priced at $449.99. On the same day, President Trump disclosed a significant 24% tariff on Japanese goods, prompting the electronics firm to reevaluate its sales strategy.
In a statement, Nintendo explained, "Pre-orders for Nintendo Switch 2 in the U.S. will not start April 9, 2025, in order to assess the potential impact of tariffs and evolving market conditions." The company assured customers that further updates on the timing of preorders would be provided at a later date.
The news of the tariff has sent ripples through various industries reliant on imports, with Nintendo being among the first to publicly adjust its commercial plans in response. The Switch 2 has been highly anticipated by fans, and the delay in preorders signals the broader economic implications of the new trade policy.
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