Emirati Publishers Showcase Cultural Exchange With China At Beijing Book Fair

The Emirates Publishers Association (EPA) is set to participate in the Beijing International Book Fair 2024, aiming to support Emirati publishers in exploring the Chinese publishing market and understanding local reader preferences. Scheduled from 19th to 23rd June, the event attracts over 2,600 exhibitors from 100 countries annually, focusing on innovation and digital technology, including e-books, audiobooks, and multimedia content.

This participation underscores the EPA's commitment to advancing the publishing industry in the United Arab Emirates. The initiative aligns with the vision and directives of Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, founder and honorary president of the Emirates Publishers Association. The EPA has secured sponsorship for three of its members through the SME sponsorship programme at the Beijing International Book Fair.

The SME sponsorship programme supports small publishers worldwide, offering a unique opportunity to thirty publishers globally, including three Emirati publishers. These selected publishers benefit from a sponsored pavilion, training courses, and networking opportunities to expand their businesses both in China and internationally.

Mohammed Bindekhain, member of the EPA board and treasurer, and director of Altakhayol Publishing House, highlighted that participating in the exhibition reflects the UAE’s openness to diverse cultures. He emphasised the association’s dedication to strengthening cultural cooperation between China and the UAE and leveraging China's experience in publishing and knowledge production.

Bindekhain stated, "The book fair provides an opportunity to strengthen ties with international organisations and institutions in the publishing sector. It also serves as a platform to promote Emirati publishers and open horizons for forming partnerships to exchange publishing and translation rights through organised sessions with international publishers."

With inputs from WAM