This has been common practice in some markets for a long time. My author copy of Ubuntu Hacks for the Indian market (English version) is much thinner than the original due to using cheaper paper to make the overall book less expensive for customers there. https://www.economist.com/britain/2022/09/08/books-are-physically-changing-because-of-inflation
@kyle The database textbook I used to use also has an Indian edition that cuts out the index and table of contents. It's a good teachable moment, why an index is worth doubling the price.