Once the center of the art auction world, France has handled only 5% of international art sales in recent decades due to an antiquated, protectionist system that has prohibited foreign auction houses from selling in Paris. But now imminent reforms will soon end French auctioneers’ monopoly and open the door to a more vibrant art market. “Many new foreign dealers have already opened branches in Paris in recent months and are eagerly awaiting the starting gun.” – The Age (Melbourne) (DPA)