
Trump Tariffs: Nintendo fans in Japan test Switch 2 amid tariff concerns
"Since Mr. Trump became president tariffs have gone up so I am concerned about a price hike not just for the game console but for accessories too," said Hidenori Tanaka, 55, a real estate company employee, who attended the event.
Nintendo Switch 2: Tariff worries loom
Despite the excitement, concerns over potential price hikes due to global trade tariffs have cast a shadow over the launch. Tariffs imposed by the U.S. on trading partners, including China, have raised production costs for electronic devices. While some tariffs have been eased, fears of a renewed trade war persist. Nintendo initially paused pre-orders in the US to assess the impact but later confirmed a price of $449.99 for the console in the region.
Nintendo Switch 2: Strong demand
In Japan, the Switch 2 is priced at 49,980 yen ($350), and demand has been overwhelming, with 2.2 million applications submitted for the lottery to purchase the console. Nintendo is hosting similar hands-on events globally, including in New York, Berlin, and Hong Kong, to build anticipation ahead of the console's official launch on June 5, 2025.
The Switch 2's debut marks a critical moment for Nintendo as it navigates supply chain challenges and tariff uncertainties while aiming to replicate the success of its predecessor.
with agency inputs
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