The Czech Republic has had zero VAT on books since 1 January 2024. In 2025, Denmark reduced VAT on books to zero from a historical high in the Union of 25%, inspired by the Czech experience. Although it is estimated that but for zero VAT, the Czech book market would have fallen in real terms by 6% in 2024, the situation is not ideal. Fewer titles are published year on year, brick-and-mortar retail is consolidating, and literature is ruled by a precariat. Tax incentives have been saving the day – but this is not enough. Thirteen European countries including Germany, France, Italy and Spain rely on fixed book pricing to protect cultural diversity, preserve independent bookstores, and prevent price wars among large players. Czechia is one of few countries to oppose fixed pricing. The discussion brings together different views, including from retail and a pan-European angle. Where it works, what does fixed pricing achieve? Why doesn’t Czechia have it, and is it time for a change?
Martin Vopěnka, Benedikt Föger, Nina George, moderation: Anna Štičková
