The 29th Annual Thailand Book Expo in Bangkok wrapped up on a high note yesterday, smashing attendance and sales records with an impressive turnout of 1.4 million visitors. The event, which took place over two weeks at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre, generated sales surpassing 438 million baht, highlighting the Thai population's growing enthusiasm for literature.

 

This year's event marked a significant post-Covid resurgence in reading, with nearly a quarter-million attendees on the final day alone. Such vibrant participation is a promising sign for Thailand's 16 billion baht book industry. Suwit Rungwattanpaiboon, head of the Publishers and Booksellers Association of Thailand, expressed his joy, noting the event’s success as proof of the sustained love for books in the nation.

 

The expo attracted a broad demographic, heavily dominated by young readers aged 12 to 35 who formed 69% of visitors. Women represented the majority of attendees at 63.78%, with men and LGBTQ+ individuals making up significant portions as well.

Japanese comics led sales, accounting for 40% of purchases, with novels and self-help books following closely. This diversity in sales reflects the varied interests of expo participants. Themed "Reading the Next World," the expo's interactive activities and special promotions—such as discounted book bundles and author meet-ups—successfully engaged and excited the public, with an average spend of 600 baht per visitor.

 

Despite economic challenges, the expo's overwhelming success underscores reading's importance in Thai culture and casts a bright prospect for the nation's publishing industry.

 

File photo for reference only

 

-- 2024-10-21

 

 

They were probably getting out of the rain.

Great to see this.