Argentina debates repeal of book price uniform law, industry protests

The government of President Javier Milei, led by Minister of Deregulation Federico Sturzenegger, is advancing a proposal to repeal Law 25.542, the Argentine statute that enforces a uniform public‑sale price for books. The initiative, dubbed the “law‑hojarasca” in official drafts, is presented as a way to eliminate restrictions, increase competition and lower book prices for consumers.

The proposal has triggered a sharp backlash from the book sector. Journalist Luis Novaresio labeled the repeal “cruel” and accused the government of endangering independent bookstores and small publishers. The Cámara Argentina del Libro, the Cámara Argentina de Librerías Independientes and more than twenty related organisations have issued joint statements warning that removing the price‑control could concentrate the market, force closures of neighborhood shops and weaken bibliodiversity. They cite the law’s role in supporting authors, editors and designers since its adoption in 2001 and point to similar price‑fixing regimes in France, Germany, Japan and other countries.

Sturzenegger has responded on social media, saying he and Novaresio are “in the antipodes” on the issue and asserting that the current rule “prevents cheap books”. He argues that deregulation will give consumers more options and bring down prices, citing international examples. Recent data from the sector show a 34 % decline in physical‑book sales over two years, underscoring the urgency of the debate.