HK book fair offers hope that reading still has a bright future

By the Editorial Team · Thursday, July 23, 2026

Hong Kong’s annual book fair attracted 990,000 visitors this year, surpassing last year’s attendance despite challenges from digital media and a prior typhoon. The event’s blend of international authors, cultural programs, and AI-driven experiences highlights Hong Kong’s ongoing role as a cultural hub and suggests a resilient interest in reading across diverse audiences.

Hong Kong’s annual book fair, which concluded this week, drew nearly one million visitors, signaling sustained interest in reading despite the growing influence of digital media and artificial intelligence. The event, organized by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council, reported attendance of 990,000 for the book fair and its related expos, surpassing last year’s turnout, which was affected by a typhoon.

This year’s edition featured a travel-themed program and was held alongside the Sports and Leisure Expo and the World of Snacks, collectively hosting 770 exhibitors from approximately 30 countries and regions. The diverse range of attractions sought to appeal to a wide audience and reinforce Hong Kong’s role as a cultural crossroads where East meets West.

A survey conducted during the fair indicated that visitors spent an average of HK$923, with fiction and literature emerging as the most popular genres. The event also marked the debut of the Asean Literacy Festival, alongside various seminars that facilitated dialogue between readers and authors and addressed broader cultural topics. One seminar series emphasized the importance of fostering a passion for books among children and youth, highlighting early engagement as a key factor in promoting lifelong reading habits.

The fair showcased works in multiple languages, including Chinese and English, and featured an international lineup of authors from countries such as China, Indonesia, the Philippines, Sweden, and the United Kingdom. This diversity reflected Hong Kong’s unique position as a hub of cross-cultural exchange.

In addition to traditional book sales and discussions, organizers embraced new technologies, offering interactive experiences such as artificial intelligence tools that transformed visitors’ sketches into artwork for souvenirs. The International Publishing Forum addressed how AI might inspire reading and literacy development, underscoring the potential to integrate technological innovation with conventional literary pursuits.

While printed book sales have seen a resurgence in some regions globally, the publishing sector in Hong Kong continues to face challenges. Nevertheless, the event’s success and the role of social media in engaging younger readers provide optimism about the future of reading. The book fair remains a significant cultural highlight in the city, affirming that appreciation for books endures amid rapidly changing media landscapes.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.