Hong Kong Book Fair defies typhoon to attract 890,000 visits

Despite being forced to close for a full day due to Typhoon Wipha, the 35th Hong Kong Book Fair concluded successfully today alongside two companion events, collectively drawing 890,000 visits.

The weeklong cultural extravaganza, organized by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), brought together more than 770 exhibitors across literature, sports, and gourmet foods.

HKTDC Deputy Executive Director, Sophia Chong, expressed her appreciation for the attendees' enthusiasm. She mentioned that the extended opening hours on Monday helped mitigate the impact of the typhoon. She highlighted the robust turnout before and after the severe weather, emphasizing the enduring appeal of this cultural highlight. This year's Book Fair, themed "Food Culture: Future Living," included special initiatives such as offering free admission to 10,000 visitors born in 1990.

The event witnessed remarkable cross-cultural engagement, with Japanese readers queuing for Kowloon Walled City-themed publications and international authors drawing capacity crowds at seminars. First-time exhibitors reported strong sales, with the stationery retailer Anything But exceeding projections by 30% despite the weather disruption. Antique dealer Tsi Ku Chai successfully attracted younger customers by showcasing contemporary cultural products alongside traditional calligraphy.

An HKTDC survey of 860 attendees revealed that the average spending reached HK$918, which accounted for 57 percent of respondents' annual book budgets. Fiction remained the most popular genre, preferred by 45 percent of visitors, followed by children's literature at 25 percent. The widespread adoption of electronic payments, used by 81 percent of visitors, reflected the fair's modernization.

The Book Fair is part of the broader "Cultural July" initiative, which continues through July 31 with events across Hong Kong's 18 districts.

The HKTDC will maintain momentum with the upcoming Food Expo and International Tea Fair in August, continuing to support the city's retail and hospitality sectors.

Archived seminar content remains available online, extending the fair's cultural impact beyond its physical duration.