Istanbul Publishing Fellowship Program unites global publishers
10th edition highlights Türkiye’s role in global publishing and the rise of AI in the industry
ISTANBUL, Türkiye (MNTV) – The 10th Istanbul Publishing Fellowship Program has begun, bringing together publishers from 75 countries.
The event aims to strengthen global copyright exchanges and foster collaboration in the publishing industry.
Organized by the Turkish Publishers Association (TBYM) with support from the Ministry of Culture and Tourism and Anadolu Agency, the program promotes Turkish literature and builds international publishing networks.
“This year, 250 foreign and 120 local publishers are participating. They will hold 30-minute B2B meetings over the next three days to present and discuss their works,” said Mehmet Burhan Genç, Chairman of TBYM.
The program focuses on showcasing Turkish literature and facilitating its translation. Interest in the event has surged, with nearly 1,000 applications this year, 25% of which are from first-time participants.
“The success of Turkish publishers in selling works internationally has steadily grown, highlighting the program’s global impact,” Genç added.
Muhammed Ağırağaç, a member of the Fellowship Coordination Board, emphasized Istanbul’s strategic position in global publishing.
“While Western markets once dominated copyright acquisitions, publishers are now exploring new routes. Istanbul, at the crossroads of these routes, attracts participants from countries with strong cultural ties to Türkiye,” Ağırağaç said.
This year’s program includes seminars on China’s growing publishing market and the increasing role of artificial intelligence (AI) in the industry.
A new “Media Match” event gives publishers and digital platform representatives opportunities to collaborate.
Cultural tours of Istanbul also allow participants to experience the city’s rich history.
The focus country this year, China, will be featured in seminars discussing its publishing trends and challenges.
The Istanbul Publishing Fellowship Program’s 10th edition reinforces Istanbul’s reputation as a global hub for publishing, cultural exchange, and innovation.