The Pokémon Trading Card Game (PTCG) is taking decisive action against scalpers, with Pokémon Center Singapore and U.S.-based vending machines rolling out innovative techniques to protect fans and collectors. Announced this week, these measures aim to curb the rampant reselling that’s plagued the hobby, especially amid high-demand releases like Prismatic Evolutions. CardChill.com explores how these changes, effective as of mid-March 2025, could reshape access to TCG products—check out the latest sets at Pokemon Trading Cards.
At Pokémon Center Singapore, a groundbreaking policy is now in place: all TCG products, from Booster Boxes to Elite Trainer Boxes (ETBs), have their outer plastic wrap removed at the point of sale. This tactic, borrowed from Japanese retailers, undermines scalpers by reducing the “sealed” value prized in the secondary market. While collectors seeking pristine boxes may feel the sting, the move ensures fans can trust that packs remain untampered when bought directly, leveling the playing field for those eager to rip into sets like Journey Together—available soon at CardChill’s Booster Box page.
Across the Pacific, Pokémon’s U.S. vending machines—now numbering over 200—are stepping up with their own defenses. In the past two weeks, these machines, found in states like California and Texas, have introduced purchase limits, dispensing only a set number of items at intervals throughout the day. Signs reading “Loitering is not permitted” now adorn the machines, empowering store staff to deter scalpers from camping out and clearing stock. This follows years of frustration over machines being drained of high-value items like Evolving Skies packs, offering hope for casual buyers—learn more about TCG trends at Card Chill Articles.
The timing couldn’t be more critical. With scalping surging since late 2024—fueled by releases tied to Pokémon TCG Pocket and Eeveelution-heavy sets—stock shortages have driven secondary market prices skyward, with Booster Boxes hitting triple MSRP. The Pokémon Company International (TPCi) has faced mounting pressure to act, especially after lackluster responses to past supply crises. These new measures suggest a shift toward prioritizing fans over reseller profits, though some argue TPCi’s failure to print to demand remains the root issue—shop smarter at CardChill.com.
Reactions highlight a divide: players and casual collectors welcome the changes, seeing them as a lifeline to enjoy the hobby, while sealed-product enthusiasts lament the loss of pristine packaging. The vending machine limits, though promising, face skepticism about enforcement, given past instances of unchecked scalping. Still, these steps mark a bold stand against a problem that’s turned Pokémon TCG into a battleground—CardChill expects them to set a precedent as the hobby braces for its 30th anniversary in 2026.