Shamitako

Absolutely. Technically they could be considered gambling in my country as do lootboxes. I do feel that there some fundamental differences thar do deserve leeway.

Tcgs are physical which means that the barrier is bigger and that they are easier to control ( by parents for instance). 

Secondly tcg are far more upfront about their "gambling" practices. A tcg is known for the luck and pay to win aspect. In a video game you don't know if lootboxes are there and what they do.

Thirdly tcg are far less manipulative than lootboxes. Achievements for watching people open lootboxes, making the game a grind so you buy lootboxes,  forcing you to buy gems to buy lootboxes but make sure that the numbers are off, ... The worst I have seen a tcg do is a short print.

Fourthly tcg are far more free with what you can do. Trading + secondary market really do help. Custom rules are also an option (like proxies).

Finally tcg didn't detract an existing product. You don't buy a game for the lootboxes.