Saudi newspapers are experiencing distribution problems with sales falling to record lows. The situation is very distressing and something needs to be done to address the problem. While some papers regularly sold 120,000 copies in the 1980s at a time when the country’s population was some 10 million, newspaper distribution today seldom exceeds that figure although the population has more than doubled since then.
Statistics show that the Saudi share in the print media is 40 copies for every 1,000 citizens. This is a very modest figure when compared with other countries, excluding Arab ones. Even Egyptian newspapers, traditionally known for enjoying very large distribution figures, are today struggling to reach those of the 1970s.
The initial explanation for this may be that it is all the result of stiff competition from satellite television and the Internet as well as the constantly worsening atmosphere of freedom. However, some experts contend that the lack of freedom is not the only reason for falling distribution figures; there are others such as the low standard of professional performance and widespread corruption in both public and corporate establishments.
I think our newspapers are not in a position to compete with satellite television which has a more professional outlook. However, an important problem like this calls for reliable and credible studies and statistics to be complied by people closely associated with the newspaper industry. Only then will we have a clear picture of what is happening to our print media and be able to seek solutions. Perhaps the Saudi Journalists Association could do something to help.
