THE IPCI-FRANCE-EUROPE ASSOCIATION
IPCI France Europe is a non-profit organization dedicated to the conservation and sustainable use of Pernambuco wood.
Born in Paris out of an awareness among artistic bow makers of the fragility of access to pernambuco (Paubrasilia echinata) resources, the International Initiative for the Conservation of Pernambuco, created in 2000, has been working in partnership with NGOs and the Brazilian authorities on the replanting, conservation, scientific study, and traceability of existing wood stocks.
- IPCI France-Europe is currently the IPCI entity with the largest number of artistic woodworkers among its members. Minutes of the 2026 AGM (for members only)
- In collaboration with IPCI-USA and IPCI-Germany, IPCI France-Europe is a key player at COP meetings and major CITES events. Find out more
NEWS - Updated on May 13, 2026
Online declaration of Materials of Bows Containing Pernambuco
The Declaration of Materials composing a bow consists of a list of the materials used to make that bow. This declaration must be made by a professional with the required expertise.
PLEASE NOTE - The Declaration of Materials does not exempt its holder from the requirement to obtain a CITES document, if applicable. If a bow contains one or more parts subject to CITES permits, the Declaration of Materials is one of the documents that must be submitted to support the application. Online declaration
International Sales and Export of Bows Containing Pernambuco
We provide members only with a document outlining the CITES requirements, administrative procedures, and best practices applicable to the international sale and export of bows containing pernambuco (Paubrasilia echinata).
Its purpose is to help professionals within the European Union comply with CITES regulations before any international transport or trade takes place. Download the document
FAQ – New rules concerning pernambuco (Paubrasilia echinata)
The European Commission has published an FAQ for musicians, bow makers, instrument makers and traders to explain the recent changes to the CITES rules applicable to pernambuco (Paubrasilia echinata).
This document answers the main questions concerning, in particular, travelling with bows, buying and selling pernambuco bows, and the applicable regulatory obligations. Download the latest updated version
Presentation of the practical information sheet – Musicians and pernambuco bows
As of 5 March 2026, the application of annotation #10 (Rev. CoP20) of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) will result in a revision of the rules applicable to bows made of pernambuco (Paubrasilia echinata), particularly for musicians who travel or sell their bows.
The attached practical information sheet aims to present in a simple manner the rules applicable when crossing borders, distinguishing between non-commercial movements, which concern the majority of musicians' travel, and commercial movements, which are subject to a stricter documentation regime. Download English version
IPCI FRANCE EUROPE ASSOCIATION - 3 rue Truffaut 75017 Paris - Association number: W751269309
