As an American, I am appalled at the nationalist attitudes and policies of my native country. Having lived outside the US for the past 20+ years and seen the USA through the eyes of the rest of the world, I can only say that we need to get our act together and stop relying upon our memories of what was, and plan for what will be!
I was shocked to discover that we were not #1. It went against everything I was taught to believe, and I'm sure my comments will raise the ire of many Americans here in MR. (I'm sorry. It's not my intention to offend. It's my intention to state facts.) I can't close my eyes to what I see every day. There is a very big world outside of the US that impacts every single economic, ecological, and political issue of our future.
Having closed markets will not destroy the industry. It will destroy America's ability to interact with the rest of the world. If this is a move to revert back to the Monroe Doctrine, it will be a good beginning. If it's part of a plan to help stem the flow of people traveling in or out of the US, it's a good beginning.
Amazon is NOT the only book seller. It's just the most advertised. Outside the US, Americans learn that there are many other retailers besides Sears, besides Walmart, besides Amazon. How many Americas have ever shopped at (or even heard of) a Tessco or a Carrefour? 7-Eleven is wide-spread but so is Sparr.
There is an entire world outside of Amazon. Outside of Sony-USA and its sales restrictions. Outside of "we don't ship outside CONUS." This is not going to affect the rest of the world's buying habits. It's going to teach that there are plenty of other avenues available.
I'll get off my soapbox now. Sorry for the rant.
Stitchawl