U.S. Customs Makes Record $18M Seizure of Counterfeit Gibson Guitars
U.S. Customs & Border Protection (CBP) officers have seized counterfeit Gibson guitars worth over $18 million, marking the largest counterfeit musical instrument seizure in CBP history.
The operation involved collaboration between CBP officers, HSI special agents, and the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department, who intercepted suspicious cargo containers from Asia. Gibson confirmed the guitars were counterfeit, emphasizing that genuine Gibson guitars are exclusively manufactured in the United States.
Seized counterfeit Gibson guitars on display
Photo Credit: U.S. Customs & Border Protection
Cheryl M. Davies, CBP Director of Field Operations in Los Angeles, warns consumers about fraudulent guitars that may appear authentic when purchased through unauthorized channels, particularly during the holiday shopping season. She advises buyers to be cautious of deals that seem too good to be true.
Gibson CEO Cesar Gueikian expressed gratitude for the agencies' efforts in combating counterfeiting. He encourages 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 being handmade in Nashville, Tennessee, or Bozeman, Montana, meeting the highest quality standards.
Key Points:
- Largest musical instrument seizure in CBP history ($18M worth)
- Counterfeit guitars originated from Asia
- Genuine Gibson guitars are only made in the USA
- Consumers advised to purchase from authorized sellers
- Gibson guitars are handcrafted in Nashville and Bozeman facilities
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