Ipe wood: origin, CITES and legality

Yes, Ipe can still be bought and sold, but since 25 November 2024 only with permits. Ipe is now listed in Appendix II of CITES, the international convention on trade in endangered species. Every shipment needs an export permit from the country of origin and an import permit at its destination. As a private buyer you do not need to apply for anything.

Where does Ipe come from?

Ipe grows in tropical Central and South America, with Brazil supplying more than 90% of exports. The botanical genus is Handroanthus, formerly Tabebuia; several species are sold under the trade name Ipe.

What does CITES Appendix II mean?

Appendix II is not a ban. It means every shipment is checked. The listing covers logs, sawn timber, veneer, plywood and processed wood of Handroanthus, Tabebuia and Roseodendron.

We buy all our Ipe in line with the EU Timber Regulation (EUTR), which bans illegally felled timber from the European market and requires importers to check where it comes from and that it was harvested legally.

Why is Ipe listed?

Handroanthus serratifolius, one of the species traded as Ipe, is listed as endangered on the IUCN Red List. The CITES listing is there so that only legally felled, traceable timber reaches the market.

FAQ

Is Ipe wood banned?
No. It is in CITES Appendix II, so trade is allowed but every import needs a permit.

Do I need a permit as a buyer?
No. Nothing to apply for if you are fitting a fence or deck in your own garden.

Is Ipe FSC certified?
Ipe is available with FSC certification, but ours is not FSC certified. We do buy all our Ipe in line with the EUTR, and every import falls under CITES.