Book fair amplifies authentic China

The 14th Annual Spring Festival Joint Exhibition of Chinese Books in Global Overseas Chinese Bookstores is underway across 100 bookstores in 41 countries and regions.

Themed "Reading China", the exhibition is organized by China National Publications Import and Export (Group) Corp and China International Book Trading Corporation (CIBTC).

The literary extravaganza showcases a curated selection of acclaimed Chinese novels and scholarly works on China's governance, precisely tailored to meet the discerning preferences of overseas readers, according to the organizers.

Beyond the realm of literature, a range of cultural activities has also been organized. The activities include exchanges among authors, book signings and online book clubs, writing Spring Festival couplets, guessing lantern riddles, drawing Peking Opera face masks and painting traditional Chinese paintings. These events aim to provide overseas readers with an insight into Chinese culture in the new era.

This year marks the inaugural participation of bookstores from countries such as Venezuela, Cambodia, Kazakhstan and Belarus, according to Jia Weilu, director of the overseas retailer service department at CIBTC's export center.

In commemorating the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China in 2024, the exhibition encompasses a focus on books elucidating China's multifaceted development over the past seven decades in areas encompassing economy, society, culture and technology.

Concurrently, the year 2024 also signifies the 60th anniversary of Sino-French diplomatic relations, therefore the joint exhibition has also prompted a series of cultural activities designed to resonate with this milestone.

In the French city of Champssur-Marne, primary school students have participated in a reading club centered around Spring Festival. Chinese scholars have been invited to share their insights into Chinese culture and customs at bookstores in Paris.

Given China's fervent promotion of cultural tourism, the joint exhibition also incorporates books introducing the rich cultural heritage and cuisine from various regions of China.

"We have curated captivating photo exhibits showcasing diverse regions of China within the bookstores. Additionally, we've also offered Chinese delicacies for visitors to sample. To encourage engagement, we've set up message boards within the bookstores, inviting visitors to share their aspirations for their dream destination in China," Jia added.

Since its inception in 2010, the Spring Festival Joint Exhibition of Chinese Books in Global Overseas Chinese Bookstores has been held each year for the past 14 years. The event leverages the advantages of overseas channels and the cultural significance of overseas Chinese bookstores, playing a pivotal role in narrating compelling Chinese stories and amplifying the authentic voice of China.