ALGIERS, Oct 21, 2025 – The 28th Algiers International Book Fair (SILA), held under the theme “The Book, a Crossroads of Cultures,” will take place from October 29 to November 8 with the participation of 1,254 publishing houses from 49 countries, including 290 Algerian publishers, organizers announced Monday.
Speaking at a press conference at the National Library, SILA Commissioner Mohamed Iguerb said the 2025 edition, held under the patronage of President Abdelmadjid Tebboune, will feature a rich literary and cultural program highlighting “memory, history, identity, and struggles for liberation.”
Mauritania was chosen as the guest of honour, reflecting “the deep civilizational and historical ties between the two countries,” Iguerb said.
The fair, described as the largest of its kind in Africa and the Arab world, will cover 23,000 square metres and host around 250 writers and intellectuals from Algeria, Africa, and beyond. Over 55 events are planned, including debates on children’s literature, artificial intelligence and creativity, and poetic evenings in solidarity with humanitarian causes.
The SILA will pay tribute to Algerian writers Rachid Boudjedra and Abdelhamid Benhadouga and will feature panels on liberation struggles — including those of Palestine and Western Sahara — as well as the centenary of Frantz Fanon’s birth.
Other highlights include conferences on France’s colonial crimes, the 70th anniversary of the 1955 North Constantine Offensive, and a special talk on Emir Abdelkader. An international symposium, “Algeria in Civilization,” will also be held on November 4 to showcase Algeria’s cultural and historical heritage.
Last year’s fair attracted more than 4.3 million visitors, confirming, according to organizers, “the enduring attachment of Algerians to books and reading.”
