Does anyone know if it is legal to bring back ivory (crafts, jewelry, whatever...) to the USA from Namibia or RSA? I have heard of ivory sales in some African countries but do not know the current availability or if this is legal. Any info is appreciated.

To import ivory one must have a cites permit for the ele...Even wart hog ivory can be confiscated...

Mike

It is my understanding that the US does not allow the import of worked elephant ivory unless it is:

- Bona fide antiques more than 100 years old accompanied by a valid certificate from the country of origin; or

- Worked ivory imported for noncommercial purposes if accompanied by a CITES PreConvention Certificate issued by the Management Authority of the exporting country that shows the ivory was aquired before February 4, 1977.

Raw elephant ivory can only be imported if it is a sport hunted trophy and accompanied by the proper permit(s).

*******Namibia got approval at the 13th COP in October of 2004 to sell ekipas (traditional carved ivory amulets). Not certain if the US has approved the import of those.*******************************

Regards,

Terry

In addition, each individual ekipa would be marked and numbered, certified, and accompanied by a CITES permit. Namibia has demonstrated the ability to regulate this entire process in a transparent fashion. There are still concerns about resumption of commercial exports of ivory products for fear it may increase counterfeiting of export products and poaching. Noncommercial sales of ekipas would not permit any export shipments for further retail sales.

Additionally, tourists who buy the ekipas would be prohibited from subsequently reselling these items. Adoption of this provision does not affect U.S. law that prohibits the import of ivory, and ekipas would continue to be prohibited from entry into the United States.

Thanks much for the information. It appears that I now have one less distraction to deal with while in Africa. Perhaps by the time I go back things may change (it may be a while). Thanks again.