Pokémon Japan has announced that it will require government identification for certain purchases of trading cards (TCG) to limit access for scalpers and foreign buyers. This measure aims to protect the integrity of the market and ensure that true fans can access products without facing speculation.
The decision comes amid a backdrop where rare cards, particularly from the latest sets, are experiencing a surge in prices due to speculation. This change in purchasing policy could also influence the pull rates for boosters and displays, making them more accessible to regular collectors.
Fans will now need to prepare to present a form of identification when purchasing certain sealed products, such as ETBs or boosters from new series. This initiative could also redefine the TCG meta by making cards harder to acquire for resellers.