Law, crime and regulation

The case of Russian billionaire businessman Dmitry Rybolovlev versus dealer Yves Bouvier highlights a widespread problem in the art world: the definition of the role of agent.

Dealer body BADA have called for a tougher stance in the run-up to wildlife conference.

Collectors and sellers of antique ivory are being told that the ivory ban is unlikely to become law before spring 2019, a longer lead-time than originally thought.

MADAM – I reply to the letter from Louise Ravula and Jane Alexandra (ATG No 2359) on a number of points they made about the antiques industry's attitude to the forthcoming ivory ban.

Three proposals for a European Union law on the import of cultural goods have been tabled for ‘trilogue’ talks in November.

MADAM – It was unfair and misleading of Louise Ravula and Jane Alexandra, of Two Million Tusks, to identify the Alastair Gibson petition as “pro-ivory trade”.

MADAM – Could you please update us on the forthcoming ivory ban: if passed, does it become law that day or will the new rules apply later? Richard Gardiner, Chichester.

The art and antiques trade celebrated a victory in the US after the Trump administration dropped plans for an import tax of 25% on art and antiques of Chinese origin.

MADAM – The views expressed by your correspondents Louise Ravula and Jane Alexandra (ATG No 2359) cannot be allowed to stand unchallenged.

No amendments were accepted on behalf of the trade during the latest House of Lords debate on the bill.

MADAM – As representatives of Two Million Tusks, we are writing to express our profound disappointment at ATG’s promotion of Alastair Gibson’s pro-ivory trade petition [Editor writes: petition is to increase the proposed de minimis exemption for antique ivory from 10% to 50%].