Brazil has now decided that Pernambuco’s trade rating will remain on Appendix II, which means that CITES permits will only be required on finished bows and all Pernambuco wood, just the first time they leave Brazil as exports.

The initial proposed ban on Pernambuco was heavily contested by musicians all over the world, who petitioned governments to reconsider the change in status. Brazil had also made the same proposal in 2022, which was dismissed at CoP19.

Conversely, various environmental organizations had supported Brazil’s previous stance and accused the musical community of indifference to ecological issues and contributing to deforestation.

In response, musicians emphasized that they are committed to preserving the species, explaining that very little Pernambuco wood is actually used for bow making; estimates are that French bow makers use one tree per year, and about a dozen for all of Europe.

According to Le Point, Brazil’s decision to rescind its proposed ban on Pernambuco also comes amid French President Emmanuel Macron’s diplomatic efforts to contact Brazilian President Lula to defend the existing bows in circulation and two centuries of craftsmanship.

Despite this, the trade and transport of pernambuco wood will, however, be subject to stricter controls going forward.

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