14th Sharjah Publishers Conference facilitates 2,993 matchmaking sessions

The 14th Sharjah Publishers Conference, organised by the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA) marked another impactful year for global publishing. This year’s event included 2,993 matchmaking sessions and 31 roundtable discussions and workshops, hosting 1,146 publishers and literary agents, along with 74 expert speakers from 108 countries, with the Central African Republic (CAR) making their debut appearance.

Speaking on the success of the three-day gathering, Mansour Al Hassani, General Coordinator of Professional Conferences for SIBF, said, “The conference successfully convened publishers, literary agents, and leading industry figures from across the globe, establishing a dynamic environment that drives innovation, cultivates strategic partnerships, and equips publishers with critical insights into the latest advancements and best practices for business growth. This accomplishment reflects our commitment to connecting global markets in the publishing industry and advancing the sector’s sustainable growth.”

The inauguration…

Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA), officially inaugurated the 14th Sharjah Publishers Conference, sharing, “The Sharjah Publishers Conference embodies our commitment to fostering a global publishing community that champions cross-border cultural exchange and innovation. As publishing navigates many rapid, wide-ranging changes, our role is to ensure that new voices can be heard, and that the industry evolves with integrity and inclusiveness. Together, we can continue building a publishing landscape that unites people across borders and celebrates the diversity of human stories.”

Facilitating the sale and acquisition of publishing and translation rights

One of the standout elements of this year’s conference was the dedicated focus on matchmaking meetings. During the second and third day of the gathering, publishers engaged in individual and group meetings designed to facilitate the sale and acquisition of publishing and translation rights. These sessions have once again proved instrumental in solidifying contracts and fostering international collaboration, contributing to SIBF’s reputation as the world’s largest book fairs in this regard.

The matchmaking programme provided participants with numerous opportunities to expand their networks, negotiate rights, and form meaningful partnerships with literary agents and foreign language publishers. The energy during these sessions was palpable, as publishers worked diligently to establish new connections that could shape the future of their businesses. This emphasis on global cooperation highlights Sharjah’s ongoing commitment to serving as a bridge between diverse publishing markets, driving growth through collaboration.

Exploring emerging trends within the publishing industry

In addition to the matchmaking meetings, the conference hosted 31 roundtable discussions and workshops that explored emerging trends and technologies within the publishing industry. Themes ranged from audio content, artificial intelligence, skills development, global opportunities, licensing and piracy, and cultural exchange, offering a comprehensive look at how publishers can adapt to an evolving landscape.

The Skills Lab, with sessions focused on improving sales strategies and leveraging digital platforms, offered valuable insights for publishers looking to expand their market reach. Meanwhile, global-focused roundtables shined a light on emerging opportunities in Africa and other regions, underscoring the importance of inclusive growth.

Honouring the winners of the Sharjah Rights Connection Awards

During the first day of the conference, Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi and HE Ahmed Al Ameri, CEO of SBA, honoured the winners of the 3rd Sharjah Rights Connection Awards, which aims to celebrate exceptional efforts in supporting and developing the publishing rights and translation sector. The “Professionals working within publishing houses buying and selling translation rights” category was won by Kalem Agency, Turkey, represented by Nermin Mollao?lu, Founder and Head of the agency. As for the “Independent professionals or those employed by agencies involved in buying and selling these rights” category, it went to Ahmed Bedeir, General Manager at Dar El Shorouk in Egypt. After a touching acknowledgement, a Special Appreciation Award was awarded to Bassam Chebaro, Founder of Arab Scientific Publishers, who sadly passed away in August. An Appreciation Award was also given to Bill Kennedy, Founder and Director of Avicenna Partnership Ltd. These appreciation awards were in recognition of their incredible efforts in promoting the publishing industry and knowledge exchange.

A platform for collaboration and growth

The 14th Sharjah Publishers Conference has established itself as a critical platform for collaboration, learning, and growth in the global publishing ecosystem. This year’s event highlighted the importance of connection with publishers leaving the conference inspired, equipped with new knowledge, and ready to seize the opportunities ahead in an ever-changing industry.