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Textbook prices across Pakistan are likely to increase by up to 50 percent in the coming months as publishers warn that a massive hike in NOC and license renewal fees has made it impossible to maintain current prices. The increase is expected to hit private school textbooks the hardest, adding pressure on parents already struggling with rising education costs.
The publishing industry has been facing rising operational and regulatory costs for some time. However, the latest revision in book-related licensing fees has triggered serious concern among publishers, who say the sudden increase leaves them with no option but to pass the burden on to consumers.
According to industry sources, the No Objection Certificate (NOC) license fee for books has reportedly been raised from Rs. 20,000 to Rs. 150,000, while the license renewal fee has jumped from Rs. 5,000 to Rs. 75,000. Publishers estimate that if these charges remain unchanged, textbook prices could rise by 40 to 50 percent.
A publisher representative stated, “With such a steep increase in regulatory fees, it is simply not possible to absorb the costs. Unfortunately, students and parents will ultimately bear the impact.”
Industry leaders have urged authorities to review the decision, warning that higher textbook prices could restrict access to education and further strain household budgets.
