According to the Argentine Book Chamber, the production of paper books has fallen by 24% compared to 2019 and 40% compared to 2016. This same trend is reflected in bookstore sales, which have also experienced a 40% drop. .
Raúl Robledo, commercial manager of Grupo Planeta, attributes this decrease to the economic crisis that the country is going through.
“In the country there is a somewhat low trend, but it is a product of economic construction,” said Robledo in dialogue with Between lines. However, he noted that there are always options for readers on a budget such as paperbacks.
Robledo also mentioned the impact of the paper crisis on the book industry: “Yes, it affected, affects and above all affects small publishers.” But he assured that the Argentine family continues to prioritize buying books even in times of crisis.
Despite the current challenges facing the Argentine publishing industry, there is a positive expectation for events like the Book Fair.
“Obviously, the expectation of sales is always there,” Robledo said. “The fair offers various options for book lovers and even opportunities to meet their favorite writers and get autographs,” he noted.
Price is a determining factor in this context. “Many readers opt for cheaper editions or paperback editions, due to the cost of some titles,” he added.
Despite the current panorama complicated by economic issues and not by lack of interest in physical books or reading, the Argentine publishing industry continues to bet on the future and events such as the Book Fair are an example of this.
The fair, which lasts until May 13, offers affordable admission during weekdays and additional activities such as food trucks for attendees.
Although the economic crisis has affected several industries in Argentina, including books and meat, optimism remains regarding the fundamental role that books play in Argentine society.
Report by Giuliana Piantoni
