Organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), the Hong Kong Book Fair 2001 was staged at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC) from 18 to 23 July 2001.

With “Enriching the imagination and expanding horizons” as the main theme, the Book Fair aimed to promote reading and the publishing trade. Split into 11 product zones, the fair occupied a 25,000 sq m exhibition area.

There were 370 exhibitors coming from Hong Kong, China, Taiwan, Australia, Singapore and Egypt. 396,171 visitors were recorded, 10,535 more than the last edition, which was the highest in history. “The Hong Kong Book Fair was not only a platform where publishers and authors can interact with their readers, but also promoted cultural development,” said Mr Michael Sze, HKTDC’s Executive Director.

Lots of cultural activities were featured in the fair, such as Writer’s Choice, Renowned Author Seminars, “Family Corner” in the Children’s Paradise, Stage Performance and New Book Release Presentation. In order to broaden reader’s horizons, mainland authors Chen Danyan and Professor Yu Qiuyu had been invited to meet Hong Kong readers and medias in the Renowned Author Seminars.

“This was the first time we collaborated with the Arts Development Council on a series of programmes to promote cultural development and encourage greater enjoyment of books. The wide range of activities made the fair an ideal venue for the entire family to enjoy a day of fun and games,” explained Ms Anne Chick, HKTDC’s Senior Exhibitions Manager.

The Hong Kong Book Fair 2002 will return to the HKCEC from 17 to 22 July 2002.