Since 5 March 2026, the implementation of Annotation #10 (Rev. CoP20) of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) results in a revision of the rules applicable to bows made from pernambuco (Paubrasilia echinata), particularly for musicians who travel or sell their bows.
The attached practical guide aims to present, in a straightforward manner, the rules applicable when crossing borders, distinguishing between non-commercial movements—which account for the majority of musicians’ journeys—and commercial movements, which are subject to a stricter documentation regime.
1. Non-commercial movements by musicians
In the vast majority of cases, musicians travelling with their bows do so for non-commercial purposes. Annotation #10 (Rev. CoP20) stipulates that such movements may be carried out without a CITES certificate, subject to certain conditions.
Within the EU, no CITES certificate is required to travel with a pernambuco bow. Similarly, for travel outside the European Union for non-commercial purposes, no certificate is required, provided that the purpose of the journey is for personal or professional use not involving a commercial transaction.
This includes, in particular, the following situations:
In these cases, musicians must simply be able to demonstrate the non-commercial purpose of their journey should they be subject to a verification.
This provision aims to ensure the free movement of musicians and the dissemination of music, whilst maintaining the species protection framework provided for by CITES.
2. Commercial movements of bows
However, when a bow is the subject of a sale or commercial transaction, the rules are different.
Within the EU, no CITES certificate is required for the sale of a Pernambuco bow, as the species is listed in Annex B of the European regulations (equivalent to CITES Appendix II).
However, for transactions involving a country outside the European Union, a CITES permit is required to export or import the bow.
This is the case, for example, for trade with third countries such as the UK, Switzerland, Japan or the US.
3. The importance of keeping supporting documents
Even if musicians have no plans to sell their bows, it is strongly recommended that they already gather the documents needed to establish the status of the bow, in particular:
These documents may be required to obtain a CITES certificate in the event of an international transaction.
4. Other protected materials
Finally, it should be noted that some bows may also contain other materials listed in the CITES appendices, such as ivory, tortoiseshell or whale bone, which are also subject to CITES permits.