New international rules affecting the trade and movement of pernambuco bows came into force on 5 March 2026. Photo: Shutterstock.
In December we announced that a proposal to move pernambuco wood to Appendix I of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) had been rejected after lobbying by the Musicians' Union and partner organisations.
The proposal would have effectively halted international trade in the wood used to make professional string instrument bows. Its rejection ensures continued access for musicians while strengthening protections for the species.
Alongside this outcome, new international rules affecting the trade and movement of pernambuco bows came into force on 5 March 2026, following an agreement reached at the 20th Conference of the Parties (CoP20) to CITES on 5 December 2025.
Guidance and frequently asked questions have been provided to the MU by the UK CITES authority, the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), explaining what the new rules mean for musicians, bow makers and traders.
We have provided a short overview below. Members can also find more detailed information in our Pernambuco FAQs 2026.
Pernambuco FAQs 2026
Travelling with bows
Musicians travelling internationally with pernambuco bows for non-commercial purposes will not need CITES permits.
This exemption covers travel for performances, competitions, teaching, repairs, appraisals and personal use, provided ownership of the bow does not change and the bow returns with the musician to their usual country of residence.
Members may wish to carry evidence of the purpose of travel – such as concert details – in case they are asked about the bow by border authorities.
Buying and selling bows
The main changes affect international commercial trade. From 5 March 2026:
- Bows made from pernambuco harvested before 2007 may still be traded internationally, but CITES permits will be required.
- Owners must provide evidence that the wood was legally acquired and harvested before 2007.
- Bows made from pernambuco harvested after 2007 cannot be traded internationally, as a zero export quota now applies.
Sales within the UK are not affected and will not require CITES permits.
Further guidance
Members can find additional information in the Know Your Bow guidance produced by the League of American Orchestras, and from Crossing Borders,which is produced by the International Federation of Musicians and Pearle*.