Hong Kong Independent Bookstore Forced to Close Amid Government Pressure
Hundreds gathered over the weekend in Hong Kong to bid farewell to an independent bookstore, Mount Zero, as it announced its closure at the end of March. The bookstore faced constant government inspections following anonymous complaints, ultimately leading to its shutdown.
Government Pressure and Closure
Mount Zero faced accusations of illegally occupying government land by tiling a pavement in front of the store, with the authorities threatening fines and jail time. The bookstore decided to shut down after enduring ongoing complaints and pressure from the authorities.
Cultural Sector in Turmoil
Since the imposition of a national security law in 2020, Hong Kong’s cultural sector has been under increasing scrutiny and censorship fears. The remaining bookstores in the city operate in an environment of growing pressure and uncertainty.
Impact on Book Lovers and Community
Book lovers and supporters mourned the closure of Mount Zero, a liberal-minded bookstore that had become a vital gathering place for like-minded readers. The bookstore’s closure signifies a loss for the community and raises concerns about the restriction of book categories in independent bookstores.
Government Inspections and Allegations
In the wake of Mount Zero’s closure, other independent bookstores reported heightened government inspections, often triggered by anonymous complaints related to fire safety and labor regulations. The government’s actions have sparked concerns about the shrinking spaces for book lovers in the city.
Final Moments of Mount Zero
As Mount Zero bid farewell to its patrons, the bookstore’s final hours were marked by a sense of camaraderie and shared memories. Supporters gathered below a sign that read “Ideas are bulletproof,” reflecting on the importance of spaces like Mount Zero for fostering community and intellectual exchange.
