Publishers warn of grim future for industry after 2 more applications to join Hong Kong Book Fair rejected

One of a Kind says its application for the annual book fair was rejected, while sources reveal Humming Publishing also barred from event

‘Some people have lost interest in writing and even quit the industry,’ says spokesman for One of a Kind

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The Hong Kong Book Fair in 2021. Photo: Dickson Lee

Published: 11:52am, 5 Jun 2022Updated: 11:15am, 12 Jun 2022

Publishers have expressed concerns over the industry’s future in Hong Kong after two more applicants were denied permission to take part in the book fair.

A cultural critic also said the publishing business was dying as many writers felt deterred from producing works over fears of being arrested or prosecuted for violating the Beijing-imposed national security law.

Daniel Wong, a spokesman for publishing house One of a Kind, revealed that fair organiser the Hong Kong Trade Development Council had told the firm via email two weeks ago that its application for July’s event had not been approved.

The Hong Kong Book Fair at the Convention and Exhibition Centre in 2021. Photo: Nora Tam

“There was no reason given in the email,” he said. “I later got in touch with the council and repeatedly demanded a reason. But all they said was that they were sorry, but no explanation was given. They stressed that we were not the only ones that had been rejected.”

One of a Kind, which has taken part in the Hong Kong Book Fair since 2012, has published one book about the city’s 2019 social unrest and two concerning Occupy Central, a large-scale civil disobedience movement in 2014 that brought parts of the city to a standstill in a push for greater democracy.

The firm has also published novels depicting the daily lives of Hongkongers.

Sources said Humming Publishing was also barred from joining the fair this year. The firm could not be reached for comment.

Publishers warn of grim future for industry after 2 more applications to join Hong Kong Book Fair rejected

One of a Kind says its application for the annual book fair was rejected, while sources reveal Humming Publishing also barred from event ‘Some people have lost interest in writing and even quit the industry,’ says spokesman for One of a Kind

One of a Kind says its application for the annual book fair was rejected, while sources reveal Humming Publishing also barred from event

‘Some people have lost interest in writing and even quit the industry,’ says spokesman for One of a Kind