A class-action lawsuit has been initiated against Nintendo by two gamers, demanding a share of potential tariff refunds from the U.S. government. Filed in federal court in Washington state, the lawsuit claims that the company should not retain profits gained from raising consumer prices to counteract tariff costs while also seeking refunds.
This legal action follows a recent decision by the U.S. Supreme Court, which deemed many tariffs imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) unconstitutional. The court ruled that former President Trump exceeded his authority, leading to an estimated $166 billion paid in tariffs by importers. Nintendo, which also filed a lawsuit against the government last month for refunds, had previously adjusted prices for the original Nintendo Switch and its accessories, citing market conditions.
The plaintiffs argue that any refunds received by Nintendo should be returned to consumers who faced higher retail prices. They contend that importers like Nintendo transferred the increased costs to customers and should not benefit from receiving payments twice—from consumers and the government.