The music industry has warned that countries like Spain are facing an increasing risk of becoming "cultural deserts", mainly on the back of online file-sharing.

The International Federation of the Phonographic Industry has stressed that there is an urgent need for a global Government legislation if the sector is to survive. The group had cited Spain has an example of a nation where there are no laws in place to discourage and prevent illegal music downloads.

The sales of albums by local artists in Spain have declined by a whopping 65% over a period of 5 years.

"Spain runs the risk of turning into a cultural desert. Drastic action needs to be taken in order to save the Spanish music industry", said Rob Wells, Senior Vice President, Digital, at Universal Music Group.

Experts have asserted that in a sector which is "rigged by piracy", most of the suffering is endured by non-English language music whenever the industry decides to adopt stricter regulations.