Pokemon TCG Events Declare War on Scalpers with Massive Graded Slab Ban

The Pokemon Company International (TPCi) has reportedly implemented strict new regulations for partnered vendors at official tournament events to combat aggressive scalping and market inflation. Under the new rules, vendors are prohibited from selling graded slabs—cards encapsulated by professional grading services—as well as any items priced at $1,000 or higher. Additionally, most products specifically from Japanese Pokemon Centers are now banned from these venues. These changes represent a major shift in event policy, aiming to refocus official gatherings on the community and competitive play rather than high-stakes financial speculation and secondary market flipping.