The National Book Council At The 2026 London Book Fair

The National Book Council (NBC) of Malta is excited to announce its participation in the 2026 London Book Fair (LBF), taking place from 10–12 March at Olympia, Kensington.

As one of the most significant international publishing events, LBF provides a key opportunity to showcase Maltese literature on a global scale. The NBC’s presence highlights its ongoing commitment to supporting local authors, publishers and illustrators, helping them connect with international industry professionals and expand their reach.

As part of our presence at the fair, we are proud to share a specially commissioned illustration by Naomi Gatt, created to illustrate the NBC’s stand at the event. The artwork embodies the spirit of the NBC’s efforts to facilitate literary export, both at the London Book Fair and other initiatives throughout the year, depicting the art of books and the written word flying off to new fertile territories beyond the confines of its original home with fish beneath the surface extending its reach much like fishing ventures into distant waters. It symbolises the dissemination of Maltese literature beyond local borders, celebrating creativity and cultural exchange across wider horizons.

Showcasing Maltese Literature

As part of its initiatives for LBF 2026, the NBC has invited Maltese publishers to submit up to five titles for inclusion in the third edition of its Foreign Rights Catalogue. This catalogue, distributed at LBF and other international fairs throughout the year, is designed to open doors for collaborations in the global book market. Authors were also encouraged to collaborate with their publishers to participate in this initiative, fostering greater international exposure.

Seminar on Expanding Underrepresented Literatures

The NBC will also host a seminar titled ‘Micro-markets, Major Voices: Strengthening Small Island Publishing’. Scheduled for the 10th of March at 12:30 ​at The International Stage, the panel will focus on how small-island nations like Malta often face unique challenges within the global publishing ecosystem—limited domestic market, resource constraints, linguistic particularity, and geographic distance from major industry centres. Yet micro-markets, like the Maltese one, consistently produce powerful literary voices, innovative publishing models, and distinctive cultural outputs that enrich the international book landscape. The seminar will moreover, bring together experts from literary landscapes that, like Malta’s, face unique challenges in gaining international recognition, generating a discussion which explores the realities, opportunities, and ambitions of Maltese publishing in effort to amplify underrepresented voices and overcome industry barriers.

‘Authentic Malta’ Initiative

In collaboration with Visit Malta (Malta Tourism Authority), for the second consecutive year, the NBC is spearheading Authentic Malta, an initiative that positions Maltese literature as an essential part of the island’s cultural heritage. Debuting at the NBC’s LBF stand, this initiative will extend to other international fairs, ensuring Maltese books reach wider audiences. Gutenberg Press will also be part of this collaboration, reinforcing Malta’s reputation for excellence in publishing and print craftsmanship.

Opportunities for Maltese Illustrators

Thanks to a partnership with Arts Council Malta, three selected illustrators – Sarah Galea, Zarifa Dag and Noemi Calisto will receive travel and accommodation subsidies, along with exhibitor passes, to attend LBF 2026. Additionally, the NBC has invited local illustrators to submit artwork for display at its stand (6A34) during the fair. Eight selected pieces will be showcased in a dedicated gallery, providing valuable exposure to industry professionals and visitors. All submitted works will also feature in the Literature from Malta: Foreign Rights Catalogue 2026.

Supporting the Maltese Literary Community

The NBC has also allocated 20 guest passes—distributed on a first-come, first-served basis—to Maltese publishers, authors, translators and illustrators. This initiative aims to facilitate networking and business opportunities, further promoting Maltese literature on the global stage.

Visit the NBC stand (6A34) at the London Book Fair to discover the richness of Maltese literature. Literature from Malta – Foreign Rights Catalogue 2026 is available for viewing below