Canada Faces Nintendo Switch 2 Tariff Delay in Pre-Orders

Gamers across the globe let out a collective groan last week when the anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 preorder date shifted from April 9 to an uncertain "we'll let you know later" due to import tariffs introduced by President Trump, which caused financial markets to plummet. 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 relative in Winnipeg, you'll need to hold off for now.

"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 Canadian tech site MobileSyrup.

"Nintendo will provide updated information at a later date. The launch date of June 5, 2025, remains unchanged."

Nintendo Switch 2 System and Accessories Gallery

91 ImagesThis echoes the statement given to IGN by Nintendo of America on April 4, although the Canadian version omits any direct reference to the new tariffs.

Pre-orders for Nintendo Switch 2 in the U.S. will not start on April 9, 2025, as we need to evaluate the potential impact of tariffs and the changing market conditions. Nintendo will update the timing at a later date. The launch date of June 5, 2025, remains unchanged.

While tomorrow was supposed to mark the start of pre-orders, there's still no clear indication of when we can expect to begin the mad dash of refreshing our browsers and checking our credit card details, leaving gamers in a state of uncertainty and worried about potential price hikes from the initially announced price of $449.99.

Meanwhile, in other parts of the world, Nintendo Switch 2 pre-orders have already gone live in the UK today. Smaller retailers like EE, GAME, and Smyths sold out quickly, and scalpers have taken to eBay, selling their pre-orders for £500 ($639) or more, a significant jump from the retail price of £395.99 ($506).

For more information, take a look at everything announced at the Switch 2 Nintendo Direct, and don't miss our in-depth interview with Nintendo of America's Bill Trinen about the Nintendo Switch 2.