Nintendo Switch 2 Tariff Delays Pre-Orders in Canada

Gamers across North America let out a collective groan last week when the Nintendo Switch 2 preorder date, originally set for April 9, was indefinitely postponed. This sudden change was triggered by import tariffs imposed by President Trump, which sent financial markets into a tailspin. The ripple effect of this decision has crossed the border, with Nintendo Canada also announcing a delay in preorders, dashing hopes of securing a console through relatives in places like Winnipeg.

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

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This echoes the statement Nintendo of America gave to IGN on April 4, although the Canadian version omits any specific mention 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, is unchanged."

With the original pre-order date looming tomorrow, there's still no clarity on when eager fans can start refreshing their browsers and verifying their credit card details. This uncertainty leaves gamers in limbo, worried about potential price hikes beyond the initially announced $449.99.

Meanwhile, in other parts of the world, Nintendo Switch 2 pre-orders have already gone live in the UK. Smaller retailers such as EE, GAME, and Smyths have seen their stock sell out rapidly, with scalpers quickly listing pre-orders on eBay for £500 ($639) or more, significantly above the retail price of £395.99 ($506).

For more insights, don't miss everything announced at the Switch 2 Nintendo Direct, and be sure to read our in-depth interview with Nintendo of America's Bill Trinen about the Nintendo Switch 2.