New rules governing the import and export of rosewood of all kinds, which come into force internationally on 2nd January, remain unclear this week, writes Gary Cooper.
Reaction to reports in Music Instrument News (2nd December read previous ) and the MIA newsletter from guitar importers suggest they have received positive assistance from DEFRA (the UK body responsible for enforcing the regulations). However distributors confirm that the position regarding the export of instruments containing rosewood is still uncertain as individual countries struggle to determine their individual policies and requirements in time for the January deadline. Of immediate concern is that there still appears to be no definitive answer as to how US Customs officials will treat guitars destined for show at the 2017 NAMM event in January.
The new rules will affect manufacturers, distributors and retailers, who either import guitars or sell them overseas. Speaking to MIN, Paul McManus Chief Executive of the MIA, explained the steps the MIA has taken to resolve this issue that threatens to affect almost the entire industry:
‘Music Instrument News and the MIA are working side by side on behalf of the industry to clarify the ramifications of the new and ongoing CITES regulations in respect of endangered woods.
‘DEFRA are the lead governmental body involved here and have recognised the need to support and guide the various trade associations (ie the MIA) on behalf of their members, who are impacted by the CITES programme. In light of this DEFRA have invited me, representing the MIA, to a special conference on 12th January at their Bristol Headquarters.
If readers have any any specific questions, please email them to me at the MIA or via Music Instrument News and we will try to get the answers we all need!
Contact: paulmc@mia.org.uk and gary@musicinstrumentnews.co.uk