Middle East & Africa Books Market Outlook, 2029

Many MEA nations saw a resurgence of literary activity in the second half of the 20th century, marked by a boom in publishing houses, bookshops, and literary festivals. Renowned writers like Naguib Mahfouz and Chinua Achebe started to become well-known abroad, which fueled interest in African and Middle Eastern literature throughout the world. The foundation for today's more diverse and lucrative book business was established by this comeback. The book market in the Middle East and Africa was significantly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, which both created new opportunities and exacerbated pre-existing problems.

Booksellers closed and literary events were canceled as a result of lockdowns and social distancing measures, which at first caused a substantial fall in physical book sales. When players try to adjust to shifting consumer tastes and technology breakthroughs, innovation has grown to be a key component of the MEA book market. Literature is now more widely available to readers thanks to the revolution brought about by the emergence of digital publication. Authors can now directly connect with readers by avoiding traditional publishing hurdles thanks to the growing popularity of e-books and self-publishing platforms. A increasing number of writers are choosing the self-publishing option, and this trend is especially noticeable in nations like Egypt and Nigeria.

According to the research report, "Middle-East & Africa Book Market Outlook, 2029,", the Middle-East & Africa Book market is anticipated to add to more than USD 1.28 trillion by 2024-29. Publishers with recognized names and newcomers coexist in the MEA book market. Well-known publishers in the Arab world include Kalimat Group, Dar Al-Ain, and Al-Maktaba Al-Arabiya. They specialize in a wide range of genres, from literature to instructional materials. Penguin Random House South Africa is located there. The import and export dynamics of the MEA book market are impacted by cultural and linguistic variables.

A large portion of books, especially popular fiction and scholarly works, are imported by numerous nations, mostly from Western markets. The local literary environment is enhanced by this influx, yet local publishers and writers may face competition. The distribution of books in the MEA region relies on a complex network of suppliers and logistics providers. Wholesalers and distributors act as intermediaries between publishers and retailers, ensuring that books reach various markets effectively.

In major cities, both independent and chain bookstores serve as primary retail outlets for consumers, while online platforms are increasingly gaining prominence. Online retail giants like Amazon have entered the MEA market, offering a vast selection of titles and convenient shopping options. Local e-commerce platforms are also emerging, catering to the unique preferences of regional consumers.

Market Drivers

Literary legacy and cultural richness: The MEA region has a rich literary legacy because it is home to many different cultures and languages. Influential writers from nations like Nigeria and Egypt have contributed to the growing awareness of literature and narrative.

Expanding Middle Class: The demand for books is rising, especially in cities, as the middle class grows throughout many African nations. Customers are more inclined to spend money on books and educational resources when their disposable income increases.

Market Challenges

Problems with Market Segmentation: With notable variations in consumer preferences, purchasing power, and distribution routes between nations, the MEA book market is extremely fragmented. For publishers, this dispersion makes marketing methods more difficult.

The state of economic instability : Consumer expenditure on books may be impacted by regional political unrest and economic swings. Devaluations of currencies and inflation have an impact on purchasing power, which lowers sales.

Digital media as a competitor: Book sales are challenged by the proliferation of digital entertainment options, such as social networking and streaming services. It's become harder and harder to hold younger viewers' attention when they have so many other entertainment options available to them.

Market Trends

Rising Trends in Self-Publishing: Self-publishing is becoming more and more popular, with authors using services like Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing to connect with readers directly. This movement offers voice to writers who are underrepresented and promotes more diversity in literature.

Stressing Diverse Voices: There is a growing focus on supporting varied voices and storylines that reflect the intricacies of the region. Publishers are making a concerted effort to feature stories written by underrepresented authors and appeal to a wide range of readerships.

Educational genres are among the most prominent in Middle East & Africa, both grabbing major amounts of consumer interest and sales.

At the moment, the top category is Education. This domination can be ascribed to the continuous changes in education that are taking place in many nations, especially in the African continent, where governments are making investments to increase access to high-quality education and literacy rates. Romance is a prominent genre that comes after educational texts, especially in the Arab world. This genre's growth is particularly notable in urban areas where educational attainment is rising. Publishers are increasingly focusing on creating relevant, localized content that meets the needs of students and teachers alike, aligning with national curricula and educational reforms.

By adding modern topics and cultural allusions to their romance books, local writers are becoming more well-known and drawing in more readers. Science fiction and fantasy are likewise becoming more and more popular genres, particularly with younger readers who are drawn to speculative stories. Notable publishers in the Middle East and North Africa (MEA) are Kalimat Group in the Arab world and Al-Maktaba Al-Arabiya. Both are well-known for their wide range of products, which include literary and educational works. Specifically, Penguin Random House South Africa are well known for their diversity of book collection and good costumer presence of every age group.

Due to cultural affinity for real books and the ritual of traditional reading, hard copy books continue to lead the Middle East & Africa book market.

Hard copy books continue to be the most popular format in the Middle East and Africa (MEA) book market, mostly because of cultural preferences and long-standing traditions of physical reading. Hard copies are still quite popular because of independent bookstores that support local businesses and offer tailored recommendations. Hard copy books continue to dominate the South American book market due to a cultural preference for physical books and the habit of reading aloud. The tactile quality of printed books, which are frequently regarded as more prestigious and collectible, is valued by many customers in the area. But e-books are becoming increasingly popular, especially with younger, tech-savvy consumers.

Even though they are currently the smallest market, audiobooks are expanding. With the popularity of smartphones, audiobooks are now more widely available, enabling readers to read while multitasking or on their commutes. Kalimat Group and Al-Maktaba Al-Arabiya are prominent players in the Arab market for hard copy, emphasizing a variety of genres and regional writers. Hard copy sales in South Africa are dominated by Penguin Random House South Africa and Jacana Media.

Offline distribution channel is leading amongst offline and online in the Middle East & Africa book market, due to its ease of buying.

For the most part because of the cultural significance of physical bookstores and community involvement, offline distribution channels maintain their advantage. Both well-known chains and independent booksellers are essential for encouraging reading and holding literary events like book launches and author signings. Offline distribution is growing quickly, particularly with younger consumers and those living in cities.

Thanks to e-commerce platforms' convenience, readers may purchase books from the comfort of their homes and choose from a larger range of titles. Online giants Jumia and Book Depository are two examples of notable businesses. Important indigenous firms with a substantial retail presence in the Arab world are Kalimat Group and Al-Maktaba Al-Arabiya, both of which are involved in offline distribution. Wordsworth Books and Exclusive Books are well-known in South Africa.

South Africa boasts the largest book market in Middle East & Africa, a robust publishing industry, and a culture of avid readers.

Because of its thriving publishing sector, wide-ranging literary landscape, and devoted readership, South Africa leads the Middle East and Africa (MEA) book market. South Africa is home to a thriving network of publishing houses, including Jacana Media and Penguin Random House South Africa, which are essential to both local and global literature. In addition, the nation benefits from a burgeoning middle class that places a higher emphasis on education and reading than its regional counterparts and from a comparatively high literacy rate.

The prevalence of book fairs and literary festivals, like the Cape Town Book Fair, is indicative of South Africa's thriving literary culture and the country's great thirst for both domestic and foreign blockbusters. The distribution of books within South Africa and to its surrounding countries is made easier by the country's well-developed logistics networks and favorable geographic location.

Reader accessibility is being further improved by the popularity of digital media like e-books and audiobooks, especially for younger audiences who are more likely to use digital platforms. South Africa leads the MEA region's book market thanks to a combination of well-established publishing houses, growing consumer demand, and cultural participation. Other countries in the region, such as Egypt and Nigeria, have important literary traditions.

Considered in this report

• Historic year: 2018
• Base year: 2023
• Estimated year: 2024
• Forecast year: 2029

Aspects covered in this report

• Book market Outlook with its value and forecast along with its segments
• Various drivers and challenges
• On-going trends and developments
• Top profiled companies
• Strategic recommendation

By Types

• Educational
• Science
• History
• Fantasy
• Romance
• Other

By Format

• Hard copy
• E-books
• Audiobooks

By Distribution Channel

• Offline
• Online

The approach of the report:

This report consists of a combined approach of primary and secondary research. Initially, secondary research was used to get an understanding of the market and list the companies that are present in it. The secondary research consists of third-party sources such as press releases, annual reports of companies, and government-generated reports and databases.

After gathering the data from secondary sources, primary research was conducted by conducting telephone interviews with the leading players about how the market is functioning and then conducting trade calls with dealers and distributors of the market. Post this; we have started making primary calls to consumers by equally segmenting them in regional aspects, tier aspects, age group, and gender. Once we have primary data with us, we can start verifying the details obtained from secondary sources.

Intended audience

This report can be useful to industry consultants, manufacturers, suppliers, associations, and organizations related to the Book industry, government bodies, and other stakeholders to align their market-centric strategies. In addition to marketing and presentations, it will also increase competitive knowledge about the industry.