Emirates Publishers Association Forges Cultural Ties At Beijing International Book Fair

As part of its agenda to facilitate Emirati publishers’ entry into new markets, the Emirates Publishers Association (EPA) is participating in the Beijing International Book Fair 2019, which runs from August 21 – 25, 2019. Two EPA members, Thaqafa Publishing and Distribution and Dragon Publishing and Distribution, are showcasing their publications at the fair, besides exploring opportunities to expand their business worldwide.

The Beijing International Book Fair is one of the most important publishing forums in Asia and the largest literary event in China, and EPA’s presence at this year’s edition will help the Emirati publishers forge partnerships with renowned publishers worldwide and widen their market.

The EPA team and members have been holding a series of meetings at the EPA pavilion to explore new opportunities and consolidate strategic cooperation with Chinese publishers, besides signing new copyright and translation agreements.

Abdullah Al Kaabi, Member of the Board of EPA and the founder of Dragon Publishing and Distribution launched four book series by the publishing house, which specialises in translating books from Chinese to Arabic.

The books included a series of 10 books about the history of China; a series of six books about the life of insects; a series of six fictional story books; and a series of two children massage guide books.

The EPA team also met with delegates from the Prince Mohammad Bin Fahad University (KSA) to gain knowledge about the newly launched publishing house launched by the university, which produces university textbooks and other forms of educational publishing.

Finally, the EPA team have organised meetings with printing houses to bring printing deals for the Emirati publishers including Wonder House Books, Shenzhen Mingyang Printing and Trading Co. Ltd.

Rashid Al Kous, Executive Director of EPA, underlined the association’s dedication to fulfilling its objectives that align with UAE’s national cultural project. He noted that EPA endeavoured to help Emirati publishers represent the UAE at regional and international cultural events, showcase Emirati books and boost cultural exchange.

“The Beijing International Book Fair is one of the world’s largest book fairs. Our participation in this event highlights our close relationship with China’s publishing sector which has developed as result of our previous visits and meetings, including EPA’s participation at the fair last year. It is one more step forward in bolstering mutual coordination between the publishing markets in the UAE and China, in view of the growing trade and economic relations between the two countries over the last five years,” he added.

The participants expressed their gratitude to EPA for the opportunity to engage in book fairs and cultural events globally which allowed them to showcase UAE’s flourishing book industry, in addition to opening up future avenues to advance the publishing sector.

Founded in 2009, the EPA is dedicated to developing the publishing sector and representing the interests of professionals in the UAE and beyond. It promotes UAE’s cultural achievements across the Arab world and globally. It also hosts, organises and takes part in regional and international conferences, exhibitions and book fairs.