Market Update: Ipe Added to CITES Appendix II

A popular tropical hardwood, Ipe, has officially been added to CITES Appendix II, a list that regulates international trade in species that could become endangered if not managed responsibly.

What’s Changing

The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) voted to include Ipe due to increasing concerns about over-harvesting and illegal logging.

This change took effect on November 25, 2024, and it’s already starting to impact global supply chains.

- Learn more from the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service

Why It Matters

Being listed under CITES Appendix II doesn’t mean this wood is banned, it means international trade is now closely monitored to ensure sourcing is both legal and sustainable.

However, these new rules can make Ipe more difficult and expensive to import. According to JW Allen & Co., importers now need additional permits and documentation for every shipment, which can cause:

• Longer lead times for new imports
• Higher and more volatile pricing
• Limited availability as global stock tightens

ATIBT (the International Tropical Timber Technical Association) also reports that pre-Convention wood, material harvested before the 2024 listing, can still be traded more freely, but new harvests face tighter restrictions.

What This Means for Contractors

Right now, Rice Lumber has Ipe in stock and access to U.S.-based inventory through our supplier network. Domestic material can still move freely within the United States, but future imports may be limited as regulations continue to tighten.

To stay informed, you can explore these helpful resources:

• Timber Development UK: New Timber Species Added to CITES Appendix II

• Thermory Blog: CITES Regulations on Ipe and Cumaru — What You Need to Know

• Kebony: What’s Happening with CITES and Ipe

In Summary

• Ipe is now regulated under CITES Appendix II.

• Trade remains legal but requires permits and proof of sustainable sourcing.

• Prices and availability may fluctuate as supply chains adjust.

• Rice Lumber currently has stock and continues to have access to domestic inventory.

If you have a project coming up that requires Ipe, it’s smart to secure your materials early. Supply timelines are changing fast, and this is one market you’ll want to stay ahead of.