On Importing Ivory

Regarding Sharri Whiting Shaw’s story on Namibia (“High-Contrast Africa,” Jan. 22): Readers interested in buying ivory akipas (old carved buttons) should remember that since 1990, all imports of elephant parts, including raw or carved ivory (old or new), have been banned into the United States. Because of the ivory ban, the killing of elephants has dropped dramatically in Namibia and elsewhere. Anyone trying to bring ivory items into the U.S. is subject to big fines and the ivory will be confiscated by customs agents.

EDWARD S. LOOSLI

South Pasadena