TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The 34th Taipei International Book Exhibition opened Tuesday (Feb. 3) at the Taipei World Trade Center Hall 1, featuring Thailand as guest of honor under the theme "CreaTHAIvity." The exhibition runs until Sunday (Feb. 8), bringing together 509 publishers from 29 countries and over 60 international authors in a record-breaking year for participation. The event aims to foster cultural exchange and promote reading among people of all ages in Taiwan.
President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) attended the opening ceremony, emphasizing the strategic importance of reading programs for cultural industries, children's futures, and the nation's vision. "When I served as Tainan mayor, many parents wanted their children to attend prestigious schools," Lai said. "Finding a good teacher is better than getting into a good school, but finding a good book is even better than finding a good teacher," he added.
Lai shared his personal experience, noting that not every family can provide a reading environment for children. "I grew up in the countryside, and my family couldn't offer such opportunities," he added. The president suggested collaboration between the Ministry of Culture (文化部), Taiwan's government agency overseeing cultural affairs, and the cultural sector to promote reading programs. He believes such initiatives would benefit cultural industries and the nation's future.
Minister of Culture Li Yuan (李遠) remarked on the exhibition's significance in introducing outstanding international writers and works while promoting Taiwanese literature globally. Deputy Minister of Culture Lee Ching-hwi (李靜慧) highlighted the book fair's support for Taiwan's publishing industry, enabling publishers and authors to showcase their works. Lee noted the event allows creators to interact directly with readers, strengthening connections between Taiwan's literary community and international audiences.
The Thailand Pavilion, this year's guest-of-honor showcase, presents a blend of local wisdom, traditional culture, and contemporary creativity, featuring 50 selected books across multiple genres. The pavilion features novels, children's books, comics, and illustrations representing Thailand's diverse literary landscape and creative industries. A special illustration section depicts urban landscapes and daily life, offering visitors insights into Thai culture and lifestyle through visual storytelling and artistic expression.
Renowned authors from South Korea, Japan, and the United States will visit Taiwan during the exhibition to engage with local readers and discuss their creative journeys. The Taipei International Book Exhibition continues to serve as a platform for cultural dialogue and creative inspiration, drawing participants from around the globe. The event reinforces Taiwan's position as a regional hub for literary exchange and the development of the publishing industry. ◼