Only 2% of Cypriots bought print publications online in 2024, compared to 14.7% in the EU – E-books and audiobooks did not exceed 2.4%

At a time when consumer activity is increasingly moving online and access to books has never been easier – whether in print or digital form – Cyprus presents a striking deviation from the European average. According to the latest Eurostat data for 2024, Cyprus recorded the lowest rate in the European Union when it comes to online purchases of printed books, magazines, or newspapers: just 2% of Cypriots reported buying printed material online in the three months preceding the survey.

Meanwhile, the EU average stands at 14.7%, with countries like Ireland (28.3%), the Netherlands (23.5%), and Luxembourg (22.7%) topping the relevant rankings. It seems print still holds a strong place in Europeans’ preferences, even in the digital age.

However, the picture in Cyprus doesn’t differ much when it comes to e-books and audiobooks either. Only 2.4% of Cypriots purchased digital or audio books online – a figure below the European average (6.8%), though slightly higher than the rate for printed material in Cyprus.

It’s worth noting that Cyprus is one of only three EU countries – along with Denmark and Finland – where online purchases of digital publications surpassed those of printed ones. However, this comparison is made between two very low figures and in no way indicates a widespread shift towards digital reading. On the contrary, the overall picture reflects a weak relationship between Cypriots and books, regardless of format. Whether on paper or screen, reading activity through purchases remains limited.

Also read: Eight books that have been banned and why you should read them

Source: Economy Today