Nintendo Switch Prices Surge in the U.S. While Switch 2 Remains Steady
Discover how the U.S. president's recent executive order on global tariffs could impact international trade and your economy. Stay informed!
U.S. President Signs Executive Order to Adjust Global Tariffs
On Thursday, President Donald Trump signed an executive order that will modify existing tariffs and increase them for several countries. These new tariffs are set to take effect on August 7, marking a significant move in the ongoing trade policy.
Impact on Nintendo and Gaming Products
Recently, Nintendo announced a price increase for its consoles and accessories in the United States, citing market conditions as the reason. The price hike affects:
- Nintendo Switch, Lite, and OLED consoles
- Switch accessories
- Certain amiibo figures
- Nintendo Sound Clock: Alarmo product
Note: The Nintendo Switch 2 console and its games will keep their current prices for now, though Nintendo mentioned that "price adjustments may be necessary in the future."
Tariffs and Market Conditions
President Trump’s executive order aims to adjust tariffs on a global scale, with some countries facing increased rates. This move follows earlier tariff changes announced in April, which included:
- A baseline tariff of 10% on imports starting April 5
- Reciprocal tariffs against many countries beginning April 9
- Significant increases for Vietnam (46%) and Cambodia (49%)
- Tariffs for Japan (24%) and China (34%)
The tariffs led to a complex situation where the U.S. suspended tariffs for most countries but continued raising them for China, reaching an effective 145%. China responded with its own tariffs, escalating the trade tensions.
Recent Developments and Exemptions
In May, the U.S. and China agreed to lower tariffs temporarily, reducing the effective rate on Chinese goods from 145% to 30%, and on U.S. goods from 125% to 10%. The White House also released a list of products exempt from these tariffs, including printed books and certain electronic items, which means manga, comic books, and other printed materials from Asia are likely exempt.
The new tariffs will also impact toys, figures, and other merchandise produced in China, Vietnam, Japan, and other Asian countries.
Ongoing Uncertainty
The U.S. administration has emphasized that tariffs can be raised or lowered depending on how other countries respond. The situation remains highly fluid, with daily changes and clarifications shaping the current trade landscape.
Source: Nintendo