Pokémon Company Considers Using Government ID To Tackle TCG Scalping

The Pokémon Company is considering government ID checks for some Pokémon TCG sales and event registrations in Japan to curb scalping.

The plan would apply to priority lottery products, selected online sales, and tournament or event sign-ups, with a target rollout in August 2026.

My Number Card or other government-issued ID could be required to verify buyers and attendees, especially for high-demand items.

The move is aimed at making it harder for resellers to hoard limited Pokémon products and to improve access fairness.