Information for Submitters
9. This discussion document is divided into five parts:
- Part I provides more detailed background information on the current review of parallel importing and creative-industries products, including information on what parallel importing is and how it can be restricted. Information is also provided on the 1998 removal of the ban on parallel importing of copyright goods.
- Part II outlines and comments on arguments made by stakeholders earlier this year in the consultation undertaken by the Ministry of Economic Development. The arguments for bans are restated separately for each industry, while the arguments against the introduction of bans are collectively stated.
- Part III provides some preliminary discussion about the potential effects of new technologies on methods of distribution. It also looks at changes in consumer purchasing practices that are particularly relevant to consideration of the effectiveness of parallel-importing restrictions.
- Part IV outlines the international context in which a decision to introduce parallel-importing restrictions has to be made, including a summary of the position in Australia and certain other countries.
- Part V concentrates on concerns about pirated and counterfeit products. Existing enforcement provisions and government initiatives targeting piracy and counterfeiting are outlined, along with additional measures that might better address industry concerns in this area - including work that is underway in relation to a possible reversal in the onus of proof in civil copyright-infringement proceedings.
10. "Requests for information" can be found throughout the paper. A full list of the requested information is provided at the end of the paper.
11. Submissions in relation to this discussion document are invited from creative-industry stakeholders, other interested parties, and members of the public. Submissions should be sent to:
Emailed submissions are welcome. They should clearly be titled "Parallel Importing Submission" and emailed to: karen.chant@med.govt.nz
The closing date for submissions is Friday 30 March 2001.
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