Where Are Counterfeit Products Sold?

When purchasing directly from certain Asian resellers (excluding Japan), collectors may be exposed to a higher risk of encountering counterfeit products. While many legitimate retailers operate throughout Asia, it is important to remain vigilant and verify the authenticity of both the seller and the products being offered.

Counterfeit collectibles are commonly found through the following sales channels:

• Online auction websites and third-party marketplaces. These platforms are among the most common sources of counterfeit figures and statues. Due to the large number of independent sellers, counterfeit products can sometimes be listed alongside genuine items, making it difficult for buyers to distinguish between them.
• Some Asian-based online retailers located in countries or regions such as China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Thailand, and Singapore. While many reputable businesses operate in these markets, collectors should carefully research unfamiliar sellers before making a purchase.
• Trade fairs, conventions, and collector events. Counterfeit products occasionally appear at exhibitions, conventions, and pop-culture events, particularly when vendors are not official distributors.
• Retail stores that have unknowingly purchased counterfeit stock. In some cases, a retailer may have been misled by a supplier and may not realize that certain products are not authentic. If you identify a counterfeit item in a store, consider informing the retailer so they can investigate the issue with their supplier.

To minimize risks, collectors should purchase from authorized retailers, official distributors, or trusted specialty stores with a proven track record of selling genuine licensed products.