Karachi: The Karachi World Book Fair (KWBF) officially opened at the Expo Centre on Thursday, drawing large crowds on its first day, including hundreds of enthusiastic schoolchildren eager to explore books across a wide range of subjects and genres.
Organised by the Pakistan Publishers and Booksellers Association (PPBA), the five-day international book fair has transformed the Expo Centre into a vibrant hub of learning, culture, and ideas.
Publishers from 17 Countries Participate
This year’s event features 329 stalls, with publishers from 17 countries, including 140 local publishing houses. The fair offers books catering to readers of all ages, covering education, literature, science, history, children’s books, and contemporary topics.
Education Minister Emphasises Importance of Books
Sindh Education Minister Syed Sardar Shah, who inaugurated the event, described book fairs as one of the most meaningful cultural activities.
“Books are essential for the evolution of human society,” he said, stressing that reading plays a crucial role in developing imagination, critical thinking, and creativity.
He cautioned against over-reliance on artificial intelligence in education, warning that replacing books with technology could weaken children’s creative abilities.
Call to Reduce Paper Taxes
The minister also urged the federal government to reduce taxes on paper, stating that high costs are harming the publishing industry and discouraging reading habits.
According to him, lowering paper taxes would make books more affordable and accessible, directly benefiting students and the general public.
Sindh’s Plan to Promote Reading Culture
Highlighting provincial initiatives, Sardar Shah said the Sindh government plans to establish book corners in schools across the province to encourage reading from an early age.
He also announced that, following Karachi, international book fairs will be organised in Hyderabad, Sukkur, Larkana, and Mirpurkhas, with full government support.
Writers and Cultural Leaders Welcome the Event
Arts Council President Ahmed Shah praised the turnout, particularly the presence of students, and assured organisers of continued support for promoting literary culture.
PPBA Chairman Kamran Noorani encouraged parents and schools to actively promote reading among children, sharing a personal story about rediscovering a childhood book gifted by his father.
Other speakers included KWBF Convener Waqar Mateen and National Book Foundation Secretary Murad Ali, who highlighted the fair’s role in strengthening Pakistan’s reading culture.
Event Timings
The Karachi World Book Fair will continue until December 22, remaining open daily from 10am to 9pm, offering visitors ample time to explore and purchase books.
