Where have all the book lovers gone in Hong Kong?

By the Editorial Team · Monday, July 27, 2026

The Hong Kong Book Fair drew nearly one million visitors, an 11 percent increase from last year, but many exhibitors, including a longtime children's book publisher, reported poor sales and announced their exit from the event. This trend highlights a shifting reading culture in Hong Kong, with declining demand for educational materials raising concerns about the future of traditional book consumption and cultural engagement.

The recent Hong Kong Book Fair attracted nearly one million visitors, marking an 11 percent increase from the previous year. Despite the strong attendance, many exhibitors reported disappointing sales figures, with a significant portion of attendees primarily browsing rather than purchasing books.

Among the exhibitors was a longtime publisher specializing in children’s books and exercise materials, which announced that this edition of the fair would be its final participation. The company cited weak sales and plans to close after 31 years in operation. This development underscores a broader concern that even traditionally popular categories—particularly educational materials for children—are experiencing a decline in demand.

Parents in Hong Kong have historically prioritized education, often investing heavily in books to support their children’s learning. However, recent trends appear to signal a shift in consumer behavior, with some observers expressing concern about diminishing interest in conventional reading materials. Meanwhile, books focused on fortune-telling and supernatural themes continue to perform comparatively well in the market.

The changing preferences have prompted discussions about how reading habits in Hong Kong are evolving. Some worry that a sustained decline in engagement with subjects such as history, politics, and social studies could have cultural implications for the city, which has faced criticism in the past for limited cultural development.

The outcomes of this year’s fair have highlighted challenges for the publishing industry in Hong Kong, prompting reflection about the future of reading culture in the city. Industry participants and cultural commentators alike are watching closely to see whether these shifts represent a temporary fluctuation or a deeper transformation in consumer habits.

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.