The trading card game (TCG) industry is thriving in 2025, with the global market valued at $7.8 billion and projected to reach $11.8 billion by 2030, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.9%, according to ResearchAndMarkets.com. This surge is driven by new card releases, technological innovations, and a passionate collector community. From a high-profile Pokémon TCG Pocket controversy to eBay’s booming trading card sales, 2025 is a pivotal year for TCG enthusiasts.

Market Growth Fuels Collector Enthusiasm

The TCG industry is experiencing robust growth, with multiple reports confirming its upward trajectory. ResearchAndMarkets.com projects the market to grow from $7.8 billion in 2025 to $11.8 billion by 2030, with a CAGR of 7.9%. Similarly, Zion Market Research estimates the market will reach $15.84 billion by 2034, with a CAGR of 7.86% from 2024. These projections reflect the industry’s strength, driven by:

• New Releases: Expansions like Pokémon TCG Pocket’s “Wisdom of Sea and Sky” set, launched on July 29, 2025, feature over 200 new cards, including legendary Pokémon like Lugia and Ho-Oh.
• Digital Platforms: Web3 TCG titles generate an average of $56.60 per user, far surpassing traditional digital games.
• Collector Demand: High-value cards, such as a One Piece Luffy promo sold for $26,400, fuel investment interest.

Pokémon TCG Pocket Faces Plagiarism Controversy

On July 30, 2025, The Pokémon Company withdrew a card design from Pokémon TCG Pocket due to plagiarism allegations, as reported by IGN. The design, resembling an artist’s original work, sparked heated discussions about originality and authenticity in card creation. This incident highlights the high stakes in the TCG industry, where unique designs are prized by collectors.

eBay’s Earnings Reflect TCG’s Commercial Strength

eBay’s latest earnings report, published on August 1, 2025, underscores the commercial power of trading cards. The platform reported that collectibles, particularly trading cards, were the largest contributor to growth, with trading card gross merchandise volume (GMV) increasing for the 10th consecutive quarter. This trend reflects the strong demand for TCGs among collectors and investors.

Protecting Your Collection in a Booming Market

With card values soaring—e.g., a 1997 Upper Deck Michael Jordan Game Jersey Autograph sold for $2.7 million—proper protection is essential. Guard TCG offers a range of premium products designed to keep your cards in mint condition:

Conclusion

The TCG industry in 2025 is a dynamic landscape of growth, innovation, and occasional controversy. From market projections to high-profile events like the Pokémon TCG Pocket design issue, collectors are more engaged than ever. As the market continues to expand, protecting your cards is critical. Guard TCG’s premium protection products are designed to meet the needs of collectors in this vibrant market. For more information or to explore partnership opportunities, visit our contact page.

Contact Guard TCG Today!

FAQs

• What drives TCG market growth? New card releases, digital platforms, and collector demand for rare cards fuel growth.
• Why was the Pokémon TCG Pocket card pulled? The card design was withdrawn due to plagiarism allegations, highlighting authenticity concerns.
• How can I protect my cards? Use Guard TCG’s acid-free sleeves, toploaders, and binders to maintain mint condition.
• Where can I learn more about Guard TCG products? Visit our contact page for details.