Pernambuco
Pernambuco is the traditional wood used for fine bow making, valued for its unique strength, elasticity, and tonal qualities. Today, it is also a protected material, and its use and circulation are subject to international and national regulations aimed at preserving the species.
In recent years, following updates from international agreements such as CITES, the rules concerning the ownership, sale, and especially the international movement of bows containing pernambuco have evolved. These regulations may vary depending on the country and the specific situation (private use, sale, travel, or shipment).
We recommend that musicians and collectors stay informed about the current requirements, particularly when travelling or transporting bows across borders. Documentation such as certificates, invoices, or provenance records can be important in demonstrating the legality of the material.
We will keep this page updated with the latest information and provide useful links to official guidelines in Italy and other countries.
Pernambuco & CITES — What Musicians Need to Know (2026 Update)
*The following information is based on the official Italian Guidance on CITES Pernambuco Rules (CoP20)
https://www.mase.gov.it/portale/documents/d/guest/comunicato_cop20_pernambuco-pdf
As the application of CITES regulations may vary slightly between European countries, this summary is intended as a general guide.
In early 2026, the international community gathered for the latest CITES Conference of the Parties, where the future of pernambuco—the wood at the heart of the finest bows—was intensely debated. At one stage, the proposal on the table would have placed pernambuco under the strictest level of protection, a decision that could have severely restricted musicians’ ability to own, use, and travel with their bows. The outcome, however, was a carefully negotiated compromise: the species remains protected, but the essential needs of musicians have been preserved.
A balanced decision was made and pernambuco remains listed under CITES Appendix II, but with a revised framework that introduces stricter control over commercial trade, while safeguarding non-commercial use by musicians. The updated rules came into force on 5 March 2026.
Travelling with your bow
For musicians, the most important point is reassuring:
You may travel internationally with your pernambuco bow without a CITES permit, provided that:
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the bow is for personal use
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it is carried for concerts, teaching, competitions, valuation, etc.
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there is no sale or transfer of ownership
In practical terms, this means that normal professional activity remains unaffected.
Ownership and traceability
Current regulations require that every pernambuco bow be accompanied by documentation proving its legal origin. In particular, it must be possible to provide one of the following:
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proof of acquisition prior to 13 September 2007 (pre-Convention)
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proof of acquisition within the European Union (or proof of import)
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for acquisitions outside the EU after 5 March 2026, the corresponding import licence
Such documentation may include receipts, invoices, customs documents, or inventory records.