Record $18M in Counterfeit Gibson Guitars Seized by U.S. Customs
U.S. Customs & Border Protection (CBP) officers have intercepted counterfeit Gibson guitars worth over $18 million, marking the largest counterfeit musical instrument seizure in CBP history.
Seized counterfeit Gibson guitars on display
The operation was a joint effort between CBP officers, HSI special agents, and the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department, who discovered the fake guitars in ocean containers arriving from Asia. Gibson verified the guitars were counterfeit, emphasizing that authentic Gibson guitars are exclusively manufactured in the United States.
CBP Director Cheryl M. Davies warns consumers about the deceptive nature of these counterfeits, particularly during the holiday shopping season. These fake guitars can appear genuine to unsuspecting buyers, especially when purchased through unauthorized channels like third-party online platforms or street markets.
Gibson CEO Cesar Gueikian expressed gratitude for the agencies' efforts in combating counterfeiting. He advises music lovers to purchase directly from manufacturers or authorized dealers to ensure authenticity.
As Gibson celebrates its 130th anniversary, the company maintains its commitment to American craftsmanship, with all instruments handcrafted in Nashville, Tennessee, or Bozeman, Montana, adhering to the highest quality standards.
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