Apple receives approval for iBookstore in Canada

Apple has received approval from Canadian regulators to open the iBookstore in the country, following a review to determine if the investment made by Apple Canada in opening the store would be of benefit to Canada. “Our Government is committed to strengthening Canada’s economy through all its sectors, especially arts and culture,” said Canadian Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages James Moore in an official release. “Apple has demonstrated how iBookstore Canada represents new opportunities for Canadian authors and publishers, and I have determined that this investment will be of net benefit to Canada.” According to the release, Apple has promised to promote Canadian-authored books in its iBookstore both in Canada and internationally, offer increased access to titles from Aboriginal authors and publishers, and assist Canadian publishers in streamlining the e-book creation process, among other commitments. Canadian users have had access to limited version of the iBookstore in the past; it is unclear how quickly Apple will expand the store’s offering based on the Minister’s approval.