Bangkok:The 31st Bangkok International Book Fair has commenced, featuring a variety of activities and exhibitions under the theme "Unread Messages - You have received a 'new message.'" The event, which began over the long weekend, is being held at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center and features contributions from 319 publishers and organizations across six distinct zones.
According to Thai News Agency, the opening ceremony was presided over by Culture Minister Sabida Thaiseth, alongside Mr. Nattakorn Wuttichaiyapornkul, President of the Publishers and Distributors Association of Thailand (PUBAT). The ceremony included a storytelling session led by the chairman, emphasizing the theme of books as messages waiting to be received by readers. Additionally, awards and plaques were presented to sponsors and contributors, including MCOT Public Company Limited, which was recognized for its support as a media sponsor.
Mr. Nattakorn Wutthichaiyapornkul highlighted the fair's aim to serve as a meeting space for readers, writers, and publishers, encouraging exploration and interaction with books and their creators. The event offers a range of activities such as exhibitions, skill development programs, and competitions that cater to diverse interests, including the MESSAGE MAKER project and 'A New Island Waiting to Be Discovered,' an exhibition showcasing debut works by Thai authors and translators.
The fair also addresses the continued popularity of physical books, particularly in the genres of romance and mystery, despite the rise of e-books. New publishing houses and reprints reflect the sustained interest in physical editions, with publishers focusing on quality design and production to appeal to collectors and general readers alike.
Throughout the 10-day event, attendees can enjoy a variety of exhibitions and activities, including the "100 ANNUAL BOOK AND COVER DESIGN 2026" and "Arranging Letters Patcharakitiya Memorial" exhibitions. The fair also includes interactive opportunities like FROM UNREAD TO UNLOCKED, organized by the Thai Foundation for the Blind, to promote reading accessibility for visually impaired individuals.
The book fair runs from October 23 to November 1, 2026, from 1000 AM to 900 PM.