Publishers warn of sharp rise in textbooks prices after fee hike

Textbooks are likely to become significantly more expensive in the coming months following a steep increase in NOC and licence renewal fees, prompting concern among publishers, educators and parents, reported 24NewsHD TV channel Monday.

Publishers have indicated that they may be forced to raise book prices, particularly textbooks printed for private schools, due to the sharp escalation in regulatory costs. According to industry sources, book prices could rise by 40 to 50 per cent if the increased fees remain in place.

Publishers said it would be impossible to keep prices unchanged after the revision in charges. The NOC licence fee for books has reportedly been increased from Rs20,000 to Rs150,000, while the licence renewal fee has jumped from Rs5,000 to Rs75,000.

Industry representatives warned that the additional financial burden would ultimately be passed on to consumers, affecting students and parents the most.

They urged the authorities to review the decision, cautioning that higher book prices could further strain household budgets and negatively impact access to education.

Reporter: Junaid Riaz