The Turnbull government’s plans to loosen restrictions on book imports in Australia have been condemned by the Printing Industries Association of Australia (PIAA), who says the decision will affect ‘industry confidence’ in the government.

The move to rescind parallel importation restrictions is due to be completed in August 2016, and PIAA chief executive Jason Allen says government liaison with the print industry is vital.

“The PIAA would like to acknowledge there is still a long way to go and further consultation with our industry is absolutely essential on the discussion of removing parallel import restrictions on books,” he says.

[Related: Book imports in spotlight]

Allen says the decision to scrap PIRs would have a ‘significant bearing’ on the printing industry, as well as adding additional economic strain.

The PIAA is calling on the industry to rally around the protection of Aussie books, and hopes a resolution can be reached.

“We need to all work collaboratively and productively to ensure best practice operates in the interests of our members and the consumer, we can find an innovative solution to this issue providing we have the consultation,” says Allen.

According to the PIAA, its main objective is to ensure the ‘competitiveness, protection and innovation’ of the Australian printing industry, and welcomes collaboration with the government on issues likely to negatively impact print.

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