Shanghai, China – March 11, 2026– The 2026 China Shanghai International Children’s Book Fair (CCBF) will take place from 13–15 November at the Shanghai World Expo Exhibition & Convention Centre, bringing together the global children’s publishing community with Asia’s fast-evolving book market.
The three-day fair will occupy 25,000 square metres, hosting publishing groups, literary agents, rights professionals, booksellers, online retailers, and licensing companies from China and across the world. More than 45,000 visitors, including around 20,000 industry professionals from over 30 countries and regions such as Italy, the UK, France, Germany, Spain, Australia, Canada, Belgium, Poland, and Brazil, are expected to attend, creating opportunities for networking, rights trading, and international collaboration.
Meet China’s Publishing Industry in One Place
As one of the most dynamic sectors of China’s publishing industry, children’s books account for nearly a quarter of the country’s total book retail sales. According to the 2025 China Paper Book Market Analysis Report issued by Zhongjin Yiyun Technology Co Ltd., the Chinese book retail market reached USD 14.39 billion, with children’s titles representing the largest share at 24.91%.
For international exhibitors seeking new readers and long-term partnerships in Asia, CCBF offers direct access to a broad range of industry professionals. Major Chinese publishing groups, children’s book imprints, national and regional distributors, bookselling networks and education service providers attend the fair each year, many of them actively searching for international titles and new publishing partnerships.
In addition to its strong domestic audience, CCBF also attracts professional visitors from across the Asia-Pacific region, including Southeast Asia, Japan and Korea, regions where demand for children’s publishing content continues to grow. For many exhibitors, the fair provides a strategic platform to expand their presence not only in China but across the wider Asian market.
Rights Trading at the Heart of CCBF
International rights exchange remains at the core of CCBF. The fair’s Copyright Zone provides a focused business environment for publishers, literary agents and rights professionals to conduct meetings, negotiate deals and explore new collaborations.
Featured areas such as the BOP – Bologna Prize Lounge, the Strega Prize Lounge, the Asia Pacific New Entry Lounge, the Belt and Road Lounge, the CrossMedia Lounge, and the Rights Centre bring together award-winning publishers, emerging market players, and innovative cross-media projects. These dedicated spaces provide international exhibitors with a focused environment for rights discussions, networking, and collaboration.
International Exchange and Industry Dialogue
CCBF 2026 offers a robust lineup of professional initiatives and signature events to foster international dialogue and industry development.
In line with the 2026 Brazil-China Cultural Year, the International Children's Book Publishers Dialogue will convene representatives from the Brazilian Book Chamber and Brazilian children’s publishers, and key publishers from emerging Asian children’s book markets such as South Korea and Thailand, alongside Chinese publishing houses and industry institutions to explore market trends, cooperation models and innovative practices in children’s publishing.
Following its successful debut in 2025, Spotlight on New Books will return in 2026 as a platform dedicated to showcasing the latest children’s titles. The programme gives exhibitors the opportunity to present their newest books in Shanghai and gain visibility among international publishers, agents, and industry professionals, supported by presentations, book signings, and promotional activities.
Additional programmes, inlcuding Conference & Seminars, Golden Pinwheel Young Illustrators Competition, the Illustrators Survival Corner, Illustrators Avenue, Children Plus Exhibition, further support industry development, talent discovery, and global collaboration.
Exploring New Opportunities for Children's Content
Reflecting the increasing convergence between publishing and other creative industries, CCBF also provides a platform for exploring opportunities in cross-media adaptation and IP development. International publishers attending the fair can connect with partners in animation, digital media, licensing and other creative sectors, extending the reach of their stories beyond the printed page.
Join the Global Children’s Publishing Community in Shanghai
CCBF 2026 offers international exhibitors an unparalleled opportunity to connect directly with Chinese publishers, explore rights and licensing deals, and tap into the rapidly growing children’s content market across Asia.
Secure your space now and benefit from early bird rates available until 30 May 2026. Don’t miss the chance to be part of Asia’s leading children’s book fair!
Exhibiting Inquiry
For further inquiries, please contact:
Ms. Mariaelena Schiavo T: +39-051282298 | E: mariaelena.schiavo@bolognafiere.it; ccbf@bolognafiere.it
