Emirates Publishers Association Strengthens Global Presence Through Latin American Cultural Events

The Emirates Publishers Association (EPA) is actively working to enhance the UAE's global publishing presence. By participating in major cultural events in Latin America, the EPA aims to strengthen international cooperation. This initiative began with the Buenos Aires International Book Fair and continues with significant literary gatherings in Rio de Janeiro, which UNESCO has designated as the World Book Capital for 2025.

In June 2025, the EPA will engage in a comprehensive programme of activities in Brazil. The delegation will attend four key publishing events in Rio de Janeiro, including the Rio International Book Fair from 13 to 22 June. This event is noted as Latin America's largest literary public gathering. Other engagements include the 6th Professional Journey, the Rio International Publishers Summit, and the PublisHer Summit, which supports women in publishing leadership roles.

The EPA's participation in these events underscores its commitment to building cultural bridges and promoting Emirati literature globally. During the 6th Professional Journey, organised by the Brazilian Book Chamber, Amira BuKdara represents the EPA. She is co-founder of Ghaf Publishing and Library and President of the EPA Board. The event offers Emirati publishers opportunities to connect with buyers and professionals in Portuguese-speaking markets through discussions on rights exchange and translation.

At the Rio International Publishers Summit, organised by the Brazilian National Syndicate of Book Publishers, global experts gather to explore topics like publishing technologies, audiobooks, reading promotion, and women's empowerment. The EPA's involvement highlights its dedication to advancing these areas within the industry.

The PublisHer Summit features panel discussions with female leaders across generations in publishing. These discussions focus on success stories and challenges faced by women in this field. The EPA's participation aligns with its goal to champion women's roles within publishing leadership.

The visit to Brazil follows a successful engagement at the Buenos Aires International Book Fair 2025 from 22 April to 12 May. In Argentina, Riyadh was honoured as a guest city. The EPA held strategic meetings with stakeholders from cultural and publishing sectors, including representatives from the Fair’s Board of Directors, publishing associations, and officials from Argentina’s Ministries of Foreign Affairs and Culture.

Strategic Meetings for Future Collaborations

These meetings explored opportunities for greater cultural exchange and mutual participation in international initiatives. Commenting on these efforts, Amira BuKdara stated: "Our engagement in Rio de Janeiro and Buenos Aires is a key step in promoting Emirati literature globally. International events provide a vital platform for collaboration, translation and co-publishing, allowing us to share Arab stories with wider audiences."

She further added: "Through this initiative, we aim to introduce Arabic content to new readers who share our love for books and knowledge despite language barriers." These efforts are part of a broader strategy by the EPA to position UAE as an influential player within global publishing while fostering cultural dialogue between Arab nations and Latin America.

This approach promotes diversity while amplifying Emirati publishers' voices across new markets worldwide.

With inputs from WAM