Havana Book Fair launches amid severe economic and energy crisis

The 34th Havana International Book Fair (FILH 2026) commenced on Monday, navigating Cuba's significant economic and energy crises. The event, however, still boasts an impressive offering of 1,300 new titles and approximately 2.4 million books for sale. Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel and Prime Minister Manuel Marrero were in attendance at the opening ceremony.

“

regardless of how adverse the circumstances are, we could not fail to celebrate this fair, which has been a space for the exchange of knowledge.

Manuel Marrero, the Prime Minister, emphasized that the fair "has been a space for the exchange of knowledge" and could not be canceled despite adverse circumstances. He also denounced what he called "threats of war" from the United States against Cuba, an "affront to sovereignty," and the "genocide" imposed by the intensified economic blockade. Marrero highlighted the fair's dedication to the centenary of the birth of Cuban Revolution leader Fidel Castro, which falls on August 13th.

“

the threats of war from the United States against Cuba, the affront to sovereignty, and the genocide that it imposes on the island with the intensification of the economic blockade.

Russia is the guest of honor, showcasing its literary productions, a film exhibition, and a delegation of musicians, writers, and artists. Representatives from China, Mexico, Argentina, Venezuela, Brazil, and Spain are also participating. The fair was originally scheduled for February but was postponed due to the "extraordinary situation" caused by the energy crisis, largely attributed to a U.S. oil blockade.

“

The Fair continues to be a great trench of ideas.

The FILH will run in Havana until August 16th, with its main venue this year being the Cultural Station of Línea and 18 in the Vedado neighborhood. The event will then travel to other provinces, concluding on September 6th in Santiago de Cuba. The fair will also host various literary awards, including the National Literature Prize, and will honor Cuban writers Marilyn Bobes and José Bell Lara. The theoretical program includes professional book fairs and meetings for editors and translators.

“

the endearing ties of friendship and cooperation with Russia, the guest of honor country at the literary event.