Piracy entails a $ 6 million-loss for the state

Computer software piracy has represented in 2000 a loss of about $ 6 million in fiscal receipts for the state, says the Business Software Alliance (BSA).

Spokesman for the association told a press conference in Casablanca Tuesday that piracy also harms job-creation, discourages foreign investors and tarnishes the image of a country, signatory to international treaties such as the GATT.

He added that the BSA which is carrying on its awareness campaign is in touch with Moroccan competent departments, such as the Moroccan copyright office and the ministry of culture and communication, to reinforce action against piracy. However, he went on, only strict law enforcement can efficiently have a dissuasive effect. He explained that 400 letters were sent to private companies, and that around 20 companies were thus prompted to regularize their situation.

BSA plans to carry on its action and intensify it by increasing the control of final user and retailers, with at least 5 monthly visits starting next January.