Chinese authorities have put a limit on exports of Erhu (traditional Chinese double-string music instruments), whose soundboxes are made of cobra skin.

Each person can now take just two Erhu out of the country, compared with five previously, according to a circular recently published by China's Administrative Office on the Import and Export of Endangered Species.

The new regulation is issued to protect cobras, as Erhu's soundboxes are made from cobra skin. Cobras are endangered animals in China.

The number of Erhu exported or taken out by overseas tourists has been increasing, as more and more foreign people are interested in Chinese traditional arts.

Since May 1, 2004, authorities have been earmarking Erhu that use cobra skin. Beginning from December 31, 2004, a special sign will have to be printed on each cobra-skinned Erhu to indicate that the manufacturing of the instrument is officially licensed.

Individuals taking abroad no more than two Erhu with such signs will be able to get official export certificates from any department authorized by the Administrative Office on the Import and Export of Endangered Species.

(Xinhua News Agency July 29, 2004)