British book publishers say piracy in the world is increasing. "Publishers are fighting a losing battle," according to the Publishers Association's international director, Ian Taylor, who spoke at a Frankfurt press conference. "As much as 40% of the international book market is going to illegal traders."
Dictionaries, English-language reference books and bestsellers by the likes of John Grisham are among those most abused. ''In key markets," says Taylor, "We feel that up to 50% of the potential market is lost through piracy. The situation is deteriorating, not improving.''
The problem is greatest in the Middle and Far East. Estimates suggest that in Turkey the loss is at 50%; in India, some 30%; and in Korea, around 40%. In Egypt, nearly 100% of medical and scientific publications are believed to be counterfeit copies, according to the Society of Authors Simon Littlewood, international director of Random House, said that the overall loss to his company of piracy worldwide could reach seven figures. A discussion of what publishers can do about it is scheduled later this week.
