Caretaker Chief Minister of Sindh, Justice (R) Maqbool Baqar, announced on Thursday the Sindh government’s intention to engage with the federal government to alleviate the burden of import duties on paper, with the aim of reducing book prices.

Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!

Addressing the 18th Karachi International Book Fair’s opening ceremony at the Karachi Expo Center, CM Baqar emphasized the vital role books play in creating awareness and fostering mental empowerment. He underscored their significance in shaping society and expressed concern about the recent surge in book prices attributed to heightened import duties on paper.

In attendance were notable figures including Chairman of the Pakistan Publishers and Booksellers Association, Aziz Khalid, KIBF Convener Waqar Mateen, former federal minister and Senator Faisal Sabzwari, senior journalist Qazi Asad Abid, Saeed Khawar, poets, and various social and political figures.

Congratulating the organizers for a successful exhibition, CM Baqar affirmed the crucial role books play in societal development. Addressing the issue of rising book prices, he clarified that the duty on imported paper falls under federal jurisdiction. He pledged to exert efforts in approaching the federal government to seek a reduction in prices.

Earlier, Caretaker CM Sindh Justice (R) Maqbool Baqir officially inaugurated the 18th World Book Fair. During the opening ceremony, Aziz Khalid highlighted the continuity of the book fair since 2005, emphasizing its role in reviving literary culture. He lamented the impact of exorbitant paper prices on book affordability and urged CM Baqar to raise the matter with the federal government.

Senator Faisal Sabzwari, a prominent figure from MQM-Pakistan, acknowledged the challenges faced by publishers due to escalating paper prices. He proposed promoting local paper industries as an alternative to reliance on imported paper, emphasizing its potential to stimulate economic growth and provide publishers with cost-effective solutions. Sabzwari also stressed the need to encourage interest in extracurricular books beyond the academic curriculum.

The opening ceremony featured the recognition of writers Dr. Aqeel Abbas Jafari and Dr. Bilal Naqvi, as well as publishers Amina Syed and Aleem Qureshi, with prestigious awards.

Meanwhile, the 18th Karachi International Book Fair witnessed a significant turnout of students and citizens on its first day at the Karachi Expo Center. Apart from textbooks, attendees displayed interest in historical and story books. The parking lot reached full capacity before evening, reflecting the enthusiasm for the event. Publishers offered attractive discounts ranging from 30 to 70 percent, contributing to the fair’s popularity. Chief Minister Sindh Justice (R) Maqbool Baqir inaugurated the event, and organizers facilitated the convenience of an ATM facility in a cash van.

Table of Contents