Algiers book fair runs until 7 November with 1,567 publishers

The 29th Algiers International Book Fair (SILA) runs at the Palais des expositions in Pins Maritimes until 7 November, with 1,567 publishers from 51 countries.

According to Algérie 360, 350 of the publishers are Algerian. The fair offers nearly 300,000 titles, up from 140,000 last year.

The public can enter from 29 October, after professionals were admitted from 28 October. Books are exempt from duties and taxes. Exhibitors have also been invited to offer extra discounts of up to 50%, and sometimes 60% in the final days.

Saudi Arabia is guest of honour this year, and its slogan is 'Tomorrow between the pages of a book'. The exhibition space has doubled compared with last year, and two more countries have joined the list of participants. The number of cultural events has risen from 530 to 994.

Visitor numbers

In 2025, the fair drew 6,241,718 visitors, with a peak of 850,914 on 6 November. Mohamed Iguerb, commissioner of the fair, expects similar or higher numbers this year.

Programme and prizes

The opening ceremony took place on 29 October at 10:30 in the main conference hall. Malika Bendouda, Minister of Culture, gave a speech, followed by a speech from Saudi Arabia and a tribute to authors who died during the year.

Kateb Yacine is the subject of round tables, alongside debates on the novel and the short story. Yasmina Khadra presents Le Prieur de Bethléem, and Adonis talks about his career. A session looks back at Ghassan Kanafani, and Benjamin Stora opens the session on the North African Star.

A round table on Mohammed Dib is aimed at younger readers. Five venues host the talks: the main conference hall, the Taher Ouettar and Assia Djebar halls, hall 2 and the Rouh El Banaf space.

The "Mon premier livre" prize, now in its third edition, is open to writers under 35. It accepts books in Arabic, Tamazight, English and French. A new award for translation and a prize for the best stand are also given.

What to see

The National Popular Army pavilion focuses on the history of the National Liberation Army (ALN). Other stands to visit include those of Saudi Arabia and Palestine, the Al Wiam children's space, and a new history and memory section with 3D projections.

The fair also marks two anniversaries: the centenary of the North African Star, founded in 1926, and 70 years since the Soummam Congress.