Archive · 22 Jan 2026
China Returns, US Pulls Out at Kolkata Book Fair
The International Kolkata Book Fair is a big event where people from different countries come to show and sell books.
This year, China is coming back after a long time, but the US is not participating.
The fair will start on January 22 and end on February 3.
Many countries, like Australia, are taking part.
The Chief Minister of West Bengal will open the fair on January 25.
It's a great place to find books and learn about different cultures.
China is participating in the Kolkata Book Fair after a 15-year gap, last attending in 2011.
The US is not participating in the fair this year, marking its first absence in 20 years.
Australia is participating after skipping last year's event.
The fair will be inaugurated by West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on January 25, 2024.
The event will run from January 22 to February 3, 2024, with 21 countries participating.
- Who
- Organizers: Publishers & Booksellers Guild; Participants: 21 countries including China and Australia; Inaugurator: Mamata Banerjee
- What
- 49th International Kolkata Book Fair
- When
- January 22 to February 3, 2024; Inauguration on January 25, 2024
- Where
- Kolkata, West Bengal, India
- Why
- To promote cultural exchange and showcase books from various countries
- Event
- 49th International Kolkata Book Fair
- Inauguration Date
- January 25, 2024
- Duration
- January 22 to February 3, 2024
- Participating Countries
- 21
- China's Last Participation
- 2011
- US Participation Status
- Not participating in 2024
- Australia's Participation Status
- Participating in 2024 after skipping last year
- Inaugurator
- Mamata Banerjee, West Bengal Chief Minister
