An APEC-themed cultural pavilion will make its debut at this year's Southern China Book Fair in Guangzhou, offering visitors a chance to explore the literature, art and culture of the Asia-Pacific ahead of the APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting in Shenzhen this November.
The five-day fair, scheduled from August 27 to 31 in Area B of the Canton Fair Complex, is expected to bring together publishers, writers and cultural organizations from around the world.
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Thailand will serve as the fair's Guest Country of Honor this year, presenting a dedicated national pavilion alongside the APEC pavilion. Both spaces will feature classic and contemporary literary works from APEC member economies.
The APEC program extends beyond publishing. Visitors will be able to explore a series of themed exhibitions spanning photography and wine culture, Southeast Asian fashion and East Asian design. Props from Dear You, a recent hit Chinese film about overseas Chinese in Thailand, will also be on display.
Beyond the APEC-themed events, the fair will offer a broader range of international programming. It will host dedicated exhibition areas for Asia, Europe, Latin America and Africa, along with an "International Bookstore" section presenting a selection of books, art and folk culture from different countries and regions.
Several international authors are expected to attend, including Northern Irish novelist Lucy Caldwell, winner of the 2023 Walter Scott Prize; Polish science fiction writer Rafal Kosik, known for his contribution to the Cyberpunk 2077 series; and Kenyan author Yvonne Adhiambo Owuor, winner of the 2003 Caine Prize for African Writing. All three will participate in literary and cultural exchange events during the fair.
The fair will also host a conversation bringing together publishing professionals from China and abroad to discuss international copyright trade. Participants will include Giovanni Hoepli, vice president of the International Publishers Association.
Visitors interested in local culture can explore exhibitions devoted to Cantonese cuisine, traditional Chinese medicine and printing techniques.
Books throughout the fair will be sold at a discount of up to 40 percent, and accessible reading sessions will be arranged for visitors with visual or hearing impairments.
Reporter | Chen Siyuan
Poster | Southern China Book Fair
