What do you think about this idea. http://www.timesunion.com/news/science/article/US-proposes-musical-instrument-passports-4335505.php
I think the intention is good but the execution is improbable.
Situation: Let's say I have a Gibson/Martin/Acme instrument from the 1930's through 1970's with unobtanium inlays or pickguard.
How do I prove what material they are? Where they were sourced from (when I probably don't know)? How do I even know what products might involve me in this issue?
I can't see most musicians knowing enough to take appropriate action, or going to the trouble.
Although the current status is indeed ludicrous and completely unworkable: "At present, musicians whose instruments contain internationally regulated wildlife products — many of them built long before CITES was established — are supposed to get export permits or certifications from every country they visit."
The good news to me personally is that I don't need to worry about it. If I travel to another country I'm either working or on holiday, and in neither case am I going to take an instrument along.
Quote from: Pilgrim on March 08, 2013, 08:54:55 AM
I think the intention is good but the execution is improbable....
Agreed. Damn near impossible in many cases, plus it would add another layer of bureaucracy in every country.
And they're talking about a 3-year passport. WTF??? It should be permanent.
"Delegates attending a global biodiversity conference" just acreams bureaucracy.
It would make more sense to amend the CITES law to exempt personally owned musical instruments.