Setting fixed book prices

Do you publish or import books in the Netherlands? You must set a fixed price for (paper) books in Dutch and Frisian. You must register the book and notify the price to the Dutch Media Authority (Commissariaat voor de Media, CvdM).

Why a fixed book price?

The fixed price ensures that a book will be sold for the same retail price in every shop. This prevents competitive pricing and should ensure a broad supply of books.

To which books does the fixed price apply?

The fixed price applies to works that are:

• paper books in Dutch and Frisian (and that have a title)
• sheet music publications (on paper)
• supporting information media
• meant for sale to consumers

There is no fixed price for electronic books (e-books) and audio books.

Registering the fixed book price

You have to register a new book and its price with the CvdM:

• First you have to register the publisher (in Dutch).
• Then you log in to vasteboekenprijs.nl to submit the book and the price. You can also register and submit the price using a form (in Dutch)

You must also submit the information if:

• the price changes. You are allowed to so 6 months after it has been introduced and every 6 months thereafter.
• a special price applies
• you lift the fixed price. You are allowed to do so 1 year after introduction

New publications, price changes and special prices must be reported to the Dutch Media Authority (in Dutch) at least one week before they take effect.