Algiers – On Monday, during the 27th Algiers International Book Fair (SILA), publishing professionals called for strengthened support for the book industry and increased efforts to encourage translation within African and Arab countries.
At a professional panel addressing the challenges facing Arab and African literature, publishers emphasized the need for substantive dialogue aimed at establishing a robust book industry across these regions. They cited digitalization as a major challenge impacting traditional publishing.
Mohamed Rachad, President of the Arab Publishers Association, highlighted the limited scope of publishing in Arab countries, which annually produces around 75,000 to 85,000 new titles, according to recent association research. This number reflects a relatively modest publishing activity across many Arab nations, with notable declines in children’s literature, short stories, and academic and scientific publications. The total market size of the publishing industry in Arab countries is estimated at $4 billion, indicating further growth potential.
Mouhand Jihmani, President of the National Organization of Book Publishers, stressed the significant challenges facing book production in African countries, particularly linguistic ones. He urged increased support for Arabic language education and encouraged the translation of Arabic works into African languages to help preserve the language’s cultural influence across the continent.
Writer Samia Bouhrati advocated for translating African and Arab works across languages to broaden visibility for local literature. Bouhrati, formerly with the National Printing Arts Corporation, emphasized that books are essential to cultural exchange and knowledge sharing, representing a gateway to greater openness and understanding among cultures.
The 27th SILA event, held at the Exhibition Palace in Algiers and running through November 16, also celebrates the 70th anniversary of Algeria’s November 1, 1954 Revolution. The fair’s program includes a series of panel discussions on literature, heritage, history, and cinema.
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Author: nor-eleslam
