Russia’s book print runs fell 26% in the first quarter of 2026 — the steepest drop in at least six years Russia experienced a 26% decrease in book and brochure print runs during the first quarter of 2026 compared to the previous year, representing the most significant drop in at least six years. This decline is accompanied by a seven-year low in brick-and-mortar retail sales. Factors contributing to this downturn include rising taxes, inflation, reduced household incomes, and a declining birthrate.

• Book and brochure print runs in Russia fell by 26% in Q1 2026 compared to Q1 2025.
• This represents the steepest decline in at least six years, with comparable drops seen in 2020 and 2023.
• In-store book sales in 2025 reached their lowest point in seven years.
• Contributing factors include rising taxes, inflation, falling incomes, and a declining birthrate.
• The director of Eksmo publishing house warned that fewer births and reduced reading could significantly impact the industry.