April 9, 2025 – President Trump just announced a 90-day pause on international tariffs, giving collectors and businesses a temporary window of relief. But not all countries are included. While Japan is exempt, China is facing a steep 125% tariff increase (New York Post). What does this mean for Pokémon collectors, especially those shopping for Japanese and Chinese imports?
Let’s break it down—especially how it could impact your buying decisions before the 90 days are up.
Why This Matters to Japanese Pokémon Card Collectors
At Shop-Complex.com, we focus heavily on authentic Japanese Pokémon cards. That’s because the Japanese market offers earlier releases, exclusive art, and high-quality print runs. And now—thanks to the tariff pause—you’re getting a short-term price advantage.
What This Means for You:
- No added tariffs on Japanese goods = No price hike (for now).
- This is the best time to stock up on Japanese cards, especially booster packs and exclusive sets.
- If you're considering grading or flipping Japanese cards, your profit margins will look better than usual in the next 90 days.
According to Wall Street Journal, the pause is intended to ease inflation and stabilize prices—but only temporarily.
What About Chinese Pokémon Cards & Accessories?
While not as popular as Japanese sets, some Pokémon cards and accessories are produced or distributed through Chinese suppliers. And here’s where it gets tricky:
- China now faces a 125% tariff, meaning any Chinese-imported TCG product may cost significantly more soon.
- This includes some protective cases, card sleeves, display stands, and even certain off-brand or collector sets that originate from or pass through China.
That means if you collect or use gear made in China, buying now could save you a lot.
Should You Buy Now or Wait?
Here’s our recommendation for collectors:
| Product Type | Country | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Japanese Pokémon Cards | Japan | ✅ Buy now while tariffs are paused |
| Graded Japanese Cards | Japan/US | ✅ Consider buying & submitting now |
| Chinese Accessories or Cards | China | ⚠️ Buy before price increases hit |
What Could Happen After the 90 Days?
If the pause ends without a new trade agreement:
- Prices on Japanese imports could rise again if tariffs are reinstated.
- Chinese product costs will remain high, potentially increasing accessory prices by 25–50% or more.
- Resellers and collectors may start bulk buying early, causing product shortages.
Final Thoughts
The Pokémon card market is always evolving, and this 90-day tariff window is a rare opportunity. Whether you’re a casual collector, reseller, or grading investor, now is the time to make strategic purchases—especially Japanese imports.
At Shop-Complex.com, we’re keeping our pricing stable while the tariff break lasts. We’ve got fresh stock of Japanese booster boxes, singles, and bundles ready to ship.
📦 Want early access to new Japanese sets before prices change?
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Sources:
- New York Post – Trump Pauses Tariff Hikes for Most Countries, Raises China to 125%
- Wall Street Journal – Stock Markets Surge as Tariff Pause Announced
- ComicBook.com – PSA Adjusts Submission Rules Amid Tariff Disruptions