Last day of book Fair woo crowds as discounts galore

The Hong Kong Book Fair is drawing to a close today, with many readers making one last visit to take advantage of deep discounts before the annual event wraps up.

While crowds are smaller than over the weekend, many visitors are still arriving with suitcases and trolleys, hoping to stock up on books before the fair ends.

Customer: "I come here on the final day because I think the final day has the most deals and also because the books are the most interesting because they have a lot of variety."

Many exhibitors have been offering bigger discounts over the final days. While 20% off has been common throughout the fair, many books are now half price, with selected titles discounted by as much as 80 or even 90%.

By 3pm, more booths begin clearance sales, offering even deeper discounts or free gifts with purchases to attract bargain hunters.

Customer: "The original price was like 600 dollars, but the discount went all the way down is 200 dollars, so I think it's a very good discount."

Booksellers say the promotions are not only aimed at clearing their remaining stock, but also at encouraging more people to read and recognise their publisher.

Compared with last year, when a typhoon and a black rainstorm warning disrupted the event, many exhibitors say this year's turnout and sales have been slightly better.

Booksellers say novels remain a favourite, while educational books are especially popular among students preparing for a new school year.