EIBF welcomes European Parliament vote on EUDR

EIBF warmly welcomes the European Parliament vote to exclude printed products from the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR).

The European and International Booksellers Federation (EIBF), together with a coalition representing the book, newspaper and magazine publishing sectors in Europe, welcome today’s vote in the European Parliament to exclude printed products, including books, from the scope of the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR). This decision represents an important recognition by Members of the European Parliament of the specific nature of the book and printed media sectors and the disproportionate burdens the regulation would have placed on the book and printed media ecosystem across Europe.

We are grateful for the cross-party support that led to this outcome, and for the Members of the European Parliament who acknowledged the cultural, democratic and societal value of books. Their vote reflects a clear understanding: protecting forests does not have to come at the expense of Europe’s cultural ecosystem or citizens’ access to knowledge and information.

EIBF has consistently supported the objectives of the EUDR: Our industry is committed to responsible sourcing, sustainable paper production and environmental stewardship. We emphasise that books are a low-risk, high-quality product. The vast majority of books sold in Europe are printed on FSC-certified or responsibly sourced paper, often within Europe or in other low-risk countries. The book sector has long-established, sustainable supply chains, which is why the European Parliament’s vote is a balanced decision that protects both forests and culture, advancing the EU’s environmental ambitions without undermining cultural diversity, press freedom or the availability of books.

We now urge the Council to swiftly confirm this necessary amendment, safeguarding EU citizens’ access to literature, information and culture.

EIBF President, Fabian Paagman said:

“Today’s vote is a strong signal that the European Parliament recognises the essential role books and bookshops play in our cultural and democratic life. We fully support the EU’s environmental goals, but regulations must remain proportionate and workable. By excluding printed products, the European Parliament has ensured that the EU can protect forests without restricting citizens’ access to books, knowledge and diverse voices. We now call on the Council to, without delay, recognise and confirm this crucial amendment during the trilogues.”