The Rise of Chinese Trading Card Publishers and the Expansion of IPs

The Rise of Chinese Trading Card Publishers and the Expansion of IPs

In recent years, the trading card industry has witnessed a surge in the popularity of Chinese trading card publishers. With a rapidly expanding market and increasing collaborations with global intellectual properties (IPs), publishers such as SUPLAY, KAKAWOW, CARD.FUN, KAYOU, and KABAO are revolutionising the hobby. From anime-inspired collectibles to officially licensed cards featuring world-renowned franchises, Chinese publishers are making waves worldwide.

The Expansion of Chinese Trading Card Publishers

Traditionally, the trading card market was dominated by Western giants such as Topps, Panini, and Upper Deck. However, Chinese companies have quickly established themselves as key players by securing major licenses, offering high-quality print production, and delivering unique artistic styles that appeal to collectors across the globe.

Some of the most influential names in this movement include:

  • SUPLAY – Known for its high-quality print runs and unique foil effects, SUPLAY has gained traction with collectors who appreciate premium card designs.

  • KAKAWOW – This publisher has made a name for itself through collaborations with major entertainment IPs, bringing beloved characters to trading card form.

  • CARD.FUN – Established in 2020, CARD.FUN has partnered with over 100 licensors, producing a diverse portfolio of over 500 co-branded cards.

  • KAYOU – A major player in the Chinese TCG scene, KAYOU is known for producing cards based on anime, manga, and gaming franchises.

  • KABAO – An emerging brand bringing fresh, artistic perspectives to trading cards, attracting collectors who value distinctive design elements.

The Role of IPs in the Trading Card Market

The success of these publishers is driven by their ability to secure rights to major intellectual properties. From anime and video games to movie franchises, these partnerships have allowed Chinese companies to create visually stunning and officially licensed products that resonate with both casual fans and dedicated collectors.

With increasing international demand, Chinese publishers are continuing to expand their offerings, making trading cards a global phenomenon rather than a niche hobby.

SSINT: Grading and Authenticating All Publishers

As the market grows, so does the need for professional grading services to ensure collectors can preserve and authenticate their valuable cards. At SSINT, we provide expert grading services for all trading card publishers, including SUPLAY, KAKAWOW, CARD.FUN, KAYOU, and KABAO.

Our grading process ensures:

  • High-precision evaluation – Every card is assessed for centering, surface quality, edges, and corners.

  • Premium encapsulation – Our ultra-clear, UV-protected cases provide top-tier protection without compromising display appeal.

  • Innovative grading scale – The SSINT Legacy Spectrum ensures collectors receive an accurate and refined assessment of their card’s quality and significance.

Whether you're collecting anime-based cards from KAKAWOW, co-branded releases from CARD.FUN, or premium foil editions from SUPLAY, SSINT is committed to grading them all with the highest standards.

Final Thoughts

The rise of Chinese trading card publishers marks an exciting era for collectors worldwide. With innovative designs, high-profile IP collaborations, and a growing collector base, companies like SUPLAY, KAKAWOW, CARD.FUN, KAYOU, and KABAO are shaping the future of the hobby.

No matter which publisher you collect from, trust SSINT to provide expert grading and encapsulation, ensuring your cards remain preserved for years to come.

Ready to get your Chinese trading cards graded? Submit to SSINT today and experience grading without compromise!

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