Nintendo Switch 2 Tariff Delays Pre-Orders in Canada

Gamers worldwide let out a collective groan last week when the Nintendo Switch 2 preorder date shifted from April 9 to an indefinite "who knows?" This change was triggered by import tariffs introduced by President Trump, causing financial markets to spiral. The ripple effect has crossed borders, with Nintendo Canada confirming that pre-orders in Canada are also delayed. So, if you were planning to secure your console through a cousin in Winnipeg, it's time to rethink that strategy.

"Pre-orders for Nintendo Switch 2 in Canada will not start on April 9, 2025, to align with the timing of pre-orders to be determined in the U.S.," stated Nintendo of Canada to the Canadian tech site MobileSyrup. They added, "Nintendo will provide updated information at a later date. The launch date of June 5, 2025, remains unchanged."

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This announcement echoes the statement Nintendo of America provided to IGN on April 4, although the Canadian version omits specific mentions of new tariffs. "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. Nintendo will update timing at a later date. The launch date of June 5, 2025, remains unchanged."

Despite the original pre-order launch slated for tomorrow, there's still no clear timeline on when eager fans can start refreshing their browsers and prepping their credit card details. This leaves gamers in a state of limbo, worrying about potential price hikes on the initially announced price of $449.99.

Meanwhile, Nintendo Switch 2 pre-orders have gone live in the UK today, with smaller retailers like EE, GAME, and Smyths selling out rapidly. Scalpers are already listing pre-orders on eBay for £500 ($639) or more, significantly above the retail price of £395.99 ($506).

For further insights, be sure to check out everything announced at the Switch 2 Nintendo Direct and our comprehensive Nintendo Switch 2 interview with Nintendo of America's Bill Trinen.