Ipe Slab with CITES Appendix II (alt text “Ipe Slab with CITES Appendix II”)

USA, August 2024 – ABS Wood, a trusted provider of premium hardwood decking and lumber, is proactively preparing its customers and industry partners for significant changes as Ipe and Cumaru hardwoods are set to be added to the CITES Appendix II list starting in November 2024. This crucial development underscores ABS
Wood’s commitment to sustainability, compliance, and uninterrupted service.

Overview:

• Ipe and Cumaru Added to CITES: Starting November 2024, Ipe and Cumaru hardwoods will be listed under CITES Appendix II, introducing new regulations aimed at ensuring sustainable trade and preventing overharvesting.

• Customer Preparation: Customers are encouraged to plan ahead by considering early procurement of materials, anticipating potential price adjustments, and preparing for longer lead times due to the increased regulatory oversight.

• ABS Wood's Commitment: ABS Wood is fully committed to sustainability and compliance, working closely with regulatory authorities to ensure a smooth transition with no disruption in the availability of Ipe and Cumaru while continuing to provide high-quality hardwoods.

Details:

As the demand for high-quality hardwoods continues to rise, it has become increasingly important to balance the needs of the industry with the responsibility to protect our natural resources. The inclusion of Ipe and Cumaru under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) marks a pivotal step in ensuring the sustainable trade of these highly sought-after hardwoods. CITES, an international treaty designed to protect wildlife and regulate the trade of vulnerable species, aims to safeguard these valuable resources from overharvesting and ensure their availability for future generations.

The decision to list Ipe and Cumaru under Appendix II of CITES is a direct response to concerns about the potential overexploitation of these species. While they are not currently classified as endangered, their increasing popularity in global markets has raised red flags about the long-term sustainability of their harvest. Appendix II of CITES includes species that are not necessarily threatened with extinction but may become so unless trade is closely controlled. By adding Ipe and Cumaru to this list, CITES aims to regulate their international trade and prevent illegal logging practices that could lead to their decline.

For ABS Wood, a company deeply rooted in the principles of sustainability and responsible sourcing, these upcoming changes present both challenges and opportunities. As these new regulations take effect, ABS Wood advises contractors, builders, and customers to anticipate potential price adjustments and longer procurement timelines. The company strongly encourages early planning and procurement to mitigate the impact of these changes. With the expected increase in regulatory oversight, customers should be prepared for longer lead times and potential fluctuations in pricing. However, ABS Wood is committed to minimizing any disruptions and ensuring that its customers continue to receive the high-quality products they have come to rely on.

To ensure a smooth transition and continued availability of Ipe and Cumaru, ABS Wood has been diligently working with relevant regulatory authorities to implement comprehensive compliance programs. These programs are designed to help navigate the complexities of the new CITES regulations, ensuring that ABS Wood remains fully compliant while continuing to deliver exceptional service. The company’s strong track record of sustainable sourcing, supported by its adherence to the Lacey Act and certification by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), positions ABS Wood to meet these challenges head-on.

ABS Wood’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond mere compliance. For decades, the company has been at the forefront of promoting responsible forestry practices long before sustainability became a mainstream concern. By prioritizing legal and ethical sourcing, ABS Wood has established itself as a leader in the industry, providing customers with peace of mind that the products they purchase are not only of the highest quality but also sourced in a manner that protects the environment.

The new CITES regulations, while essential for protecting endangered species, introduce additional bureaucratic challenges for the hardwood industry. Similar regulations in the past have demonstrated a significant impact on importers and the broader trade landscape. Past inclusion of products in the CITES system led to restrictive quotas and permitting processes that significantly reduced the number of U.S. importers and intensified operational challenges for those involved in the trade. However, ABS Wood’s longstanding focus on sustainable and legal sourcing ensures that it remains at the forefront of compliance and industry leadership.

ABS Wood continues to be a leading supplier of high-quality hardwoods, dedicated to upholding the highest standards of sustainability and regulatory compliance. The company’s commitment to responsible sourcing is reflected in its diverse range of products, which includes not only Ipe and Cumaru but also other premium hardwoods such as Garapa and Tigerwood. In addition to meeting CITES requirements, ABS Wood also complies with the Lacey Act and offers FSC Certified hardwoods, further solidifying its dedication to environmental stewardship.

As the November 2024 deadline approaches, ABS Wood is working tirelessly to ensure that its inventory can withstand expected delays and disruptions caused by the new CITES regulations. The company’s robust inventory management strategies are designed to handle any potential challenges, ensuring that customers continue to have access to the materials they need for their projects. Despite the challenges posed by increased regulatory oversight and potential delays, ABS Wood is committed to maintaining a consistent supply of high-quality hardwoods for its customers.

For more information about how ABS Wood is preparing for these changes or to discuss your hardwood needs, please visit our website at www.ABSWood.com.

About ABS Wood

ABS Wood is a leading supplier of premium hardwood decking and lumber. With a strong commitment to sustainability and compliance, ABS Wood provides a broad range of high-quality Brazilian hardwoods, including Ipe, Cumaru, Garapa, and Tigerwood, with FSC Certified options, for a variety of high-end construction projects and woodworking applications.

Contact Details

Contact: 352-508-4990 or 404-549-4840
Email ID: [email protected]