Whereas it used to be an open event, that is prior to China’s final assault on democracy in the city, Hong Kong’s book fair is now a shadow of itself. Its organizers have, in accordance with the wishes of the Chinese regime, barred independent publishers from this year’s book fair. This article is published by UCA News. Here is an excerpt:

The organizers of Hong Kong’s annual book fair, dubbed one of Asia’s largest literary events, has barred three independent publishers allegedly for their pro-democracy stance, media reports say.

Organized by Hong Kong Trade Development Council, the 32nd edition of the book fair runs from July 20-26 at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Center, reported Portuguese-language newspaper, Hoje Macau.

The theme of this year’s festival is “History and City Literature” with the tagline “Reading the World: Stories of Hong Kong.”

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