Pearl Shell
p. 46 · Read in the full issue
Control of the American Market
THE pearl-shell situation has again as sumed a character where there is a strong feeling in trade circles that the semi-monopolistic control of the American market keeps the product at prices re sulting in the active discouragement of many button manufacturers to use Aus tralian shell and the continued growth of the use of such substitutes as fresh-water shells and synthetics.
Efforts are being made by certain groups in New York to enlist the aid of the Australian Government for the es tablishment of an agency in the United States as the sole outlet for Australian shell, with the output strictly controlled in order to equalise the good and bad sea sons. The agency also will give a com plete account to the Australian fishers of all income derived in America, and encourage a wider use of pearl buttons by publicity and a price attractive to users.
The matter is being officially laid be fore the Australian Government.