Federal opposition spokesman for tourism Anthony Albanese has penned an opinion piece stating his opposition to the removal of parallel import restrictions (PIR), warning of its dire economic impact on the printing industry.

The Harper Competition Policy Review and a subsequent Productivity Commission Review proposed to abolish PIR, which currently prevents the importation of commercial quantities of books without the copyright holder’s permission.

Industry groups like the Australian Publishers Association have warned policymakers the changes could allow outside markets like China to swarm the Australian market with its printed book imports.

Despite this, Albanese claims the Turnbull government will likely adopt the removal of PIR.

Albanese says his party, Labor rejected the call to abolish PIR due to the cultural and economic ramifications it would cause. The Greens have also stated their opposition to any changes.

“Australians want to read, hear and see our vibrant culture reflected in the books they read. Beyond that, they want the best Australian writers to project our nation and our culture around the globe,” he writes.

“The economic costs resulting from a contraction in the printing industry must also be considered.

“At least 4000 people work in the publishing industry. That figure reaches 20,000 when you add the book sellers and printers. Their jobs are important.” 

Albanese joins a chorus of well-known Australian novelists who have slammed the changes to PIR, including Tim Winton, Peter Carey and Richard Flanagan.

Comment below to have your say on this story.

If you have a news story or tip-off, get in touch at editorial@sprinter.com.au.  

Sign up to the Sprinter newsletter