Frankfurt Book Fair 2026 concludes with 236,000 visitors

The 2026 Frankfurt Book Fair concluded with 236,000 visitors from 137 countries and 4,000 exhibitors. While attendance remains high, the figures are slightly below the 238,000 recorded in 2025. Industry leaders noted that the fair is navigating challenges such as declining reading skills among youth and the impact of artificial intelligence on publishing.

The event marked a leadership transition, as Juergen Boos stepped down after 21 years as director; he will be succeeded by Joachim Kaufmann in 2027. The fair also featured the presentation of the Peace Prize of the German Book Trade to French-British lawyer and author Philippe Sands. In his acceptance speech, Sands addressed the importance of the rule of law and the dangers of silence regarding historical and contemporary injustices.

Looking ahead, Chile has been announced as the guest country for the 2027 fair, which will take place from October 6 to 10 under the theme ‘Stars of the Earth’.