AIPG is the international association representing producers, processors and traders in natural tree exudate gums, principally Gum Arabic, Gum Tragacanth, and Gum Karaya. In 2001, the expanded Association for the International Promotion of Gums was created by a merger of the hitherto existing AIPG and INGAR, the International Natural Gums Association for Research. Today, AIPG is a strong association with members from both producing and consuming countries. Most of the members come from the European Union (EU) and Sahelian African nations, but the United States of America and Japan are also represented. The members work together to further promote the use and image of natural exudate gums in food, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics and technical applications.