Pokémon TCG Pocket Trading Revamp: Trading Tokens Replaced by Shinedust

The development team has dropped a big announcement about the trading system in Pokemon TCG Pocket, set to roll out by the end of autumn 2025. The updates include scrapping trading tokens and introducing shine dust as the new trading currency, along with a new way to select the cards you wish to trade for, among other enhancements.

This news was shared through a detailed image posted on official platforms like the Pokemon TCG Pocket Twitter account. The announcement begins by acknowledging player feedback on the current trading system before diving into the changes, which are aimed at making the feature more “accessible and enjoyable.”

Here’s what’s changing in the trading scene:

Trading tokens are being phased out, so players won’t have to exchange cards for currency anymore. Instead, trading cards with rare ratings of three-diamond, four-diamond, and one-star will now require shine dust. Players will also earn shine dust automatically from booster packs if the cards are already in their Card Dex. Since shine dust is also needed for acquiring flair, the team is considering increasing its availability to support both flair and trading activities. This should allow for more trading options than before this update.

Existing trade tokens can be swapped for shine dust when the feature is retired. Importantly, the process for trading one-diamond and two-diamond rarity cards remains unchanged.

Additionally, a new feature in development will let you highlight the cards you’re interested in trading through the in-game function.

The trading feature was officially introduced earlier this year and received mixed reactions—it excited some but left others wanting more. The issues mainly stemmed from the limitations of the trading currency and restrictions on tradable card rarities. While the forthcoming changes tackle the currency issue by providing ample shine dust, the rarity restrictions will stay for now. However, the team mentioned that they might revisit this restriction as new packs are released, which makes sense if they aim to prevent exclusive trading markets from forming.

The ability to specify which cards you’re looking for is a welcome addition, too. For instance, I’d love to get my hands on another Victreebel but have hesitated to invest in older sets because of the allure of the fresh cards introduced in “Triumphant Light.” This new feature should make it easier for folks seeking specific cards without diving into various trading forums and community spaces.

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