The Pokemon Company updates event rules to fight scalping

The Pokemon Company has announced major changes to the rules surrounding official Pokemon Trading Card Game (TCG) events. These updates are intended to address the widespread problem of scalping, which has become an increasingly serious issue within the Pokemon TCG community in recent years.

Policy changes

The new policy is focused on limiting the sale of specific items by vendors connected to Pokemon TCG events. This includes:

• A ban on selling graded cards during events.

• Restrictions on the sale of high-value cards, which are often targeted by scalpers.

• Vendors may not sell individual items worth more than $1,000 at major events.

• The sale of most products from the Japanese Pokemon Center is prohibited.

This new policy is meant to ensure fair access to products and events for all Pokemon TCG participants and fans.

When the new policy starts

The changes will officially take effect at the Indianapolis Regional, which runs from May 29 to 31, 2026. This event marks an important moment for The Pokemon Company in its efforts to combat scalping practices and protect the integrity of its events.

Background on scalping in Pokemon TCG

Scalping involves buying up products with the intention of reselling them at a higher price. In the world of Pokemon TCG, this has become a growing problem, especially with popular products that sell out quickly. Many fans have complained that they cannot get the cards they want because of the high prices scalpers charge.

By introducing these new rules, The Pokemon Company hopes to reduce the damage and create a fairer environment for both players and collectors.

Reactions to the changes

Reactions to the announcement have been mixed. Some fans welcome the changes as a positive step toward fairness and accessibility. Others, however, especially those who rely on card sales, have raised concerns about the impact this policy could have on their businesses.

As The Pokemon Company tries to strike a balance between supporting vendors and protecting consumers, it will be interesting to see how effective these policy changes are in practice.

As these changes make their way through the event scene, both fans and vendors will be watching closely to see how these new guidelines affect their interactions with Pokemon TCG.