Before you read: The Hong Kong Book Fair is a major annual event that promotes reading, cultural exploration and tourism, while integrating modern themes like AI. This year’s theme emphasises the connection between travel, culture and literature, inviting diverse audiences to engage with a global literary community.
Think about it: How can the integration of AI into events like the Hong Kong Book Fair change the way we engage with literature and culture?
Hong Kong’s annual book fair returns in July with a renewed focus on cultural exploration, tourism and the role of AI in reading, with the organiser hoping to beat last year’s visitor turnout.
The Trade Development Council (TDC) said the 36th Hong Kong Book Fair would be themed “Reading the World: Cultural Legacy | Joyful Journeys” and run from July 15 to 21 at the Convention and Exhibition Centre in Wan Chai.
“Through this theme, we hope to encourage residents to read works related to culture, tourism, and creativity, exploring the world through words,” said Jenny Koo Jing-man, TDC’s deputy executive director.
Running alongside the Sport and Leisure Expo and the World of Snacks, the book fair is one of three concurrent events organised by the TDC.
Together, they are expected to draw more than 770 exhibitors from around 30 countries and regions.
Following the government’s emphasis on reading and artificial intelligence (AI), the International Publishing Forum – one of the fair’s key highlights – will focus on the coexistence of reading and data in the AI era.
“We’ve invited three experts to share how AI can boost reading efficiency, build deep comprehension skills, and inspire people to enjoy reading,” said Anita Wan, the honorary secretary of the Hong Kong Publishing Federation.
An interactive AI exhibition will also be featured, where visitors can sketch simple drafts that an AI programme will then transform into a completed artwork printed on a souvenir.
Koo said the organisers are optimistic about attendance.
“We hope to exceed last year’s turnout and look forward to strong support from both local residents and tourists,” she said.
Last year’s fair attracted 890,000 visitors, although attendance was affected by a temporary closure due to a No 8 signal raised during a typhoon.
“This year’s theme would really resonate with residents who love to travel. By combining travel with culture, we believe more people will come to the fair and immerse themselves in the world of reading,” she added.
Ticket prices remain unchanged, with admission set at HK$30 (US$3.8) for adults and HK$10 for children.
Each ticket provides admission to all three events: the Hong Kong Book Fair, Sports and Leisure Expo and World of Snacks.
