Hong Kong’s Rise as Asia’s Trading Card Hub: 6 Key Factors

Why is Hong Kong Asia’s #1 trading card hub?

Hong Kong’s emergence as a regional trading card powerhouse is accelerating, underscored by PSA’s recent announcement of a new submission center in the city. This follows CGC’s earlier expansion into Hong Kong, anticipating Asia’s booming demand for collectibles. In 2024, Asia’s collectibles market generated over $88 billion, capturing 30.4% of the global market share (second only to North America at 35%)*, reflecting the region’s explosive growth.

As most global brands have always sourced their products in Asia, external pressures like U.S. tariffs have further spurred strategic shifts, prompting companies like PSA to establish regional hubs (e.g., in Canada and Germany) and leading to partnerships such as Topps’ collaboration with China’s Kayou for exclusive Asian releases. Meanwhile, Asian major trading card expos—often backed by stock market-listed firms—are empowering Asia’s collector community to grow independently of global political complexities, with Hong Kong positioned as the gateway for market entry.

1. Strategic Free Port & Trade Policies

As a duty-free zone with simplified customs processes, Hong Kong minimizes costs and red tape for traders of high-value collectibles, from vintage Pokémon cards to rare sports memorabilia. 

2. Thriving Collector Culture

Hong Kong boasts a mature collector base, anchored by massive TCG (Trading Card Game) communities and high-end sports card enthusiasts. The growing recognition of trading cards as alternative assets fuels market liquidity and demand, creating a self-sustaining ecosystem. Notably, despite being one of the world’s most expensive cities for retail space, brick-and-mortar card shops in premium locations have nearly doubled since 2022—a testament to the sector’s explosive growth and investor confidence.

3. Major Event Hosting Powerhouse

Beyond its marquee events like Anime Hong Kong and Comic Con, Hong Kong’s trading card ecosystem thrives on a dynamic mix of regional and hyper-local gatherings. The ASCC (Asia Sports Collectibles Convention) in neighboring Macau has become a pivotal industry summit, drawing wholesalers, graders, and investors. Meanwhile, recent Hong Kong-based trading card shows like Grade10 Festival or Hong Kong Trading Card Show, and many new events popping up like PokeFest Show—which have surged on a quarterly frequency over the past two years—complement niche tournaments, creating a nonstop cycle of activity. This interconnected network of events cements the city as a year-round hub for collectors, dealers, and gamers, sustaining momentum even between larger conventions.

4. Tourism Rebound & Collector-Focused Travel

Hong Kong’s post-COVID tourism revival—with visitor arrivals rebounding to 12% YTD in 2025—has fueled a surge in themed travels. Visa-free access for most nationalities, coupled with the city’s compact geography, enables enthusiasts to seamlessly attend expos, auctions. Government campaigns like now highlight pop-culture attractions, while hotels and airlines partner with event organizers to offer travel packages that often includes HK's collectibles hubs (antiques, arts, toys, stamps, coins, etc). This influx of international visitors amplifies trading card liquidity and cross-border networking, turning the city into a pilgrimage site for Asia’s collectibles community.

5. World-Class Logistics & Financial Infrastructure

Efficient ports, airfreight networks, and seamless cross-border banking enable rapid, secure distribution and transactions across Asia and beyond. 

6. Tax Efficiency For Corporates

No sales or capital gains taxes reduce overheads for traders establishing in Hong Kong, while the business-friendly environment lures grading giants (PSA/Collectors,CGC/Certified Collectibles Group) and auction houses (Christie's, Sotheby's, Bonhams) to establish regional HQs. 

With its unique blend of connectivity, cultural diversity, and institutional advantages, Hong Kong is solidifying its status as Asia’s undisputed trading card nexus—a launchpad for global brands and a hub for regional collectors. (*) Source: Hong Kong Trade Development Council