4th April 2012

IMPALA welcomes the announcement by Antonio Vitorino of the launch of the mediation process on private copying.

As the association representing independent music companies at European level, IMPALA looks forward to discussing the core issues identified by Mr. Vitorino in his statement published April 2nd 2012.

Private copying is an exception to copyright which member states can decide to provide on condition that rightholders receive fair compensation. Private copying is vital remuneration for creators. While the methodology and administration of private copying systems is open to improvement, especially in terms of harmonisation, IMPALA believes compensation “levied” on blank media and recording equipment is the fairest way to implement such an exception in place while remunerating right holders appropriately.

About IMPALA

IMPALA was established in April 2000 to represent independent music companies. 99% of Europe’s music companies are SMEs. Known as the “independents”, they are world leaders in terms of innovation and discovering new music and artists – they produce more than 80% of all new releases. SME’s also produce 80% of Europe’s jobs. Their potential is enormous but is hampered by complex barriers to trade and severe market access problems. The impact on diversity, consumer choice and pluralism is clear. Over 95% of what most people hear and see, whether on radio, retail or the internet, is concentrated in the hands of four multinationals, known as the majors.

Cultural and creative SMEs are now officially recognised by the EU as “the drivers of growth, job creation and innovation”. IMPALA expects the EC and its member countries to put in place key investment, digital and market access measures. Fostering Europe’s economy of culture and diversity is one of the EU’s top priorities in becoming the world’s leading knowledge economy. Culture is a bigger earner than any of chemicals, automobiles or ICT manufacturing and provides more than 3% of Europe’s jobs. IMPALA has its own award schemes to help promote cultural diversity and new talent and highlight the artistic contribution of independent music. IMPALA award winning artists include Efterklang, Adele, Manu Chao, Radiohead, Agnes Obel, Caro Emerald and Sigur Ros.