Amazon shutting down all of its Quebec warehouses isn’t just about job losses—it’s also a big deal for book lovers, especially those who read in French. Amazon has been a major distributor of books in Quebec and things are about to changeand with its departure.
What Happens to French Books Now?
Many Quebecers rely on Amazon for quick access to books- particularly French-language titles that aren’t always easy to find in mainstream bookstores. Now, with Amazon shifting to third-party delivery services, there’s a real concern that shipping times will increase, prices may go up, and availability could become more limited. Already, delivery times have doubled since the company’s January closure announcement.
Simply put, as things stand, its gonna take longer and cost more for Quebecers to get their books if they stick with the American Mega Corp as their main source for books.
Quebec’s Taxation and Shipping Regulations
Quebec has some unique tax and shipping rules compared to the rest of Canada. While printed books are exempt from the Quebec Sales Tax (QST), they still get hit with the federal 5% Goods and Services Tax (GST). This means books remain cheaper in Quebec than in some other provinces, but they aren’t entirely tax-free.
When it comes to ordering from outside Quebec, things get a little trickier. Any package worth more than $20 CAD is subject to GST and possible import duties, which could make ordering books from other provinces—or internationally—more expensive. And with Amazon no longer shipping from within Quebec, many customers might start feeling the impact of these extra costs.
How Could the Government Get Involved?
Quebec has always been serious about protecting its French language and culture, so there’s a chance the government might step in. Possible moves could include subsidizing local booksellers, offering incentives to publishers, or even pushing for another major distributor to step into Amazon’s place.
But who knows? This could all change. With shifting trade policies in the U.S. and growing calls from Canadian provincial leaders to simplify interprovincial trade, there’s a real push to get rid of complicated and redundant taxes and barriers between provinces. If things keep moving in that direction, it might actually get easier and cheaper to buy books across Canada.
Opportunity for the Little guy?
Since Amazon started selling books in Canada in June 2002, Independent book owners have been wondering if they could survive the big-box-mega-corp competition. In an interview with CBC, children’s author and Quebec resident shared feeling “terrifed”, “We’re doing anything to sell a book at this point, going to school book fairs, signings outside the store. Wherever we can go to sell books we’re doing it.”
With Amazon pulling out, Quebec’s independent bookstores could see a boost in business. If this is handled well, it could be a great opportunity to shift the book market toward Quebec-based businesses.
What About Kindle and E-Readers?
If you’re a Kindle reader, you’re in luck—ebooks aren’t affected by warehouse closures. However, it’s worth noting some key changes to Kindle over the last year. As shared by , “Last October, the company announced that in February 2025, they were shuttering Kindle Vella, their serialized stories platform. Last year the company killed off Kindle Flash Cards. Now, Amazon has announced they are killing off USB File Transfers for all Kindle Books.”
Additionally, if you’re looking to buy a new Kindle or another e-reader, it’s likely there will be delays since physical devices may now have to ship from outside Quebec.
Challenges and Opportunties
Amazon’s exit from Quebec is bigger than just warehouse closures. It’s about who controls book distribution, how quickly readers can access French-language books, and whether independent bookstores can step up to the challenge. Whether this ends up being a crisis or an opportunity depends on how quickly Quebec’s book industry—and possibly its government—responds. One thing is certain: for Quebec readers, things are about to change.
Attache ta tuque!
An avid book reader and proud library card holder, Angela is new to the world of e-Readers. She has a background in education, emergency response, fitness, loves to be in nature, traveling and exploring. With an honours science degree in anthropology, Angela also studied writing after graduation. She has contributed work to The London Free Press, The Gazette, The Londoner, Best Version Media, Lifeliner, and Citymedia.ca.