Istanbul: A transformation is underway in the publishing industry worldwide. From reader preferences to the widening repertoire of artificial intelligence, publishers around the world are observing common movements shaping the sector for years to come. At the 10th Istanbul Publishing Fellowship Program, publishers converged on the Turkish metropolis from 75 different countries, with current global trends taking the forefront of discussions.
According to Anadolu Agency, the fellowship program served as a platform for discussing emerging global trends and innovation in the publishing industry. Participants noted the rise of digital content, with a focus on tried-and-true intellectual property as a safer investment over new and original stories. Trkiye, however, stands as an exception, with many publishers keen on representing emerging authors. The program, organized by the Turkish Press and Publishers Copyright and Licensing Society and supported by the Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism, aims to facilitate the distribution of publications across various regions.
Global trends in publishing show a shared pattern across different countries. Ilena Treccarichi, based in London, highlighted that certain genres, particularly fiction for middle-grade students and young adults, are gaining traction in both Turkish and global markets. She also noted the increasing popularity of digital content, especially audio-based content for children offered through subscription models. Janelle Del Luis, a US-based publisher, observed similarities in Turkish and global demand, with bestsellers and books adapted into films or TV shows performing particularly well.
The COVID-19 pandemic has shifted publishing trends towards a new paradigm. Treccarichi mentioned the growing popularity of serial content, which gained momentum post-2020. Shorter-form content, especially in fantasy and romantic literature genres, caters to shorter attention spans, making chapter books more appealing. Treccarichi explained that publishers prefer established intellectual properties over original content due to economic uncertainties. However, in Trkiye, boutique publishers are more inclined to focus on emerging authors and illustrators.
Artificial intelligence is playing an increasing role in the publishing industry. Mercy Kirui from Kenya emphasized the efficiency AI brings to publishing processes, allowing for better cover and illustration ideas. Esad Aslanoglu from Azerbaijan echoed these sentiments, highlighting AI's positive impact on market applications. Kirui also raised concerns about AI-generated content and the importance of modern copyright laws in addressing intellectual property theft, advocating for the integration of AI in publishing processes while ensuring authenticity and proper referencing.