Chinese literature attracts readers at Egyptian book fair

Chinese books have attracted interest from Arabic readers at this year's Bibliotheca Alexandrina International Book Fair, one of the biggest international book fairs in Egypt.

At the fair — one of the region's leading cultural events, bringing together around 1,000 Egyptian and Arab readers and nearly 100 Egyptian and Arab publishing houses — Chinese publications stand alongside Arabic and international titles, reflecting an open cultural environment that encourages readers to explore diverse intellectual traditions and civilizations.

The book fair, concluded on Thursday after being extended for three days, was organized by Bibliotheca Alexandrina, a major library and cultural center in Alexandria, Egypt.

Among the featured titles were books on Chinese ceramics, tea culture, and the historical interactions between Chinese, Arab, and Islamic civilizations that underscore the deep-rooted connections between the two cultures.

Salma Sameh, a Chinese language student and book fair visitor, said that the presence of Chinese books at a major international event such as the Bibliotheca Alexandrina Book Fair represents more than a publishing showcase — it serves as a platform for strengthening people-to-people exchanges.

"For students, the fair provides access to up-to-date academic references. For the general public, it is an opportunity to discover China through Chinese voices rather than stereotypes, helping to build genuine cultural awareness," Sameh said.

She also emphasized the vital role of translation in communication.

"A translator does more than transfer words — they convey the spirit of the text and its culture to Arab readers. Translation is therefore a fundamental bridge connecting the two civilizations."

Sameh expressed hope that more Chinese books would be translated into Arabic, particularly contemporary novels, history, science, arts, and technology.

"Contemporary Chinese literature offers vivid insights into modern Chinese society and everyday life. It can attract a much broader audience, especially young readers, making Chinese culture accessible beyond academic circles."

Hager Rizk, another Chinese language student attending the fair, said the presence of Chinese publications represents an important step toward expanding Arab readers' understanding of China through reliable and diverse sources.

"Books remain one of the best ways to understand Chinese civilization, history, and philosophy. Specialized titles on Chinese ceramics and the historical exchanges between China and the Islamic world provide valuable academic resources for researchers and Chinese language students."

She added that there remains a growing need for more high-quality Arabic translations of Chinese publications. "We need more accurate Arabic translations that present a comprehensive picture of Chinese civilization, including traditional arts, tea culture, and porcelain craftsmanship, which are among the most distinctive elements of China's cultural heritage."

Rizk stressed that these publications enrich not only Arab libraries but also broader cultural exchanges between Egypt and China.

"These books provide researchers, students, and the general public with a window into Chinese civilization, contributing to mutual learning between civilizations and strengthening knowledge exchange between the two peoples."

Sara El Ashrafy is a freelance journalist for China Daily.