According to a survey conducted among Indians in May 2019 about their digital lifestyles, it was found that a vast majority of people read books on digital devices. When asked how respondents obtain a book, over ** percent stated that they download e-books and read them offline in contrast to ** percent of the people who purchase physical copies of the books.

According to a youth survey conducted across ***** Indian cities in 2019, it was seen that a majority of male youngsters reported to have read a book outside school curriculum in the week preceding the survey. While a majority of female respondents reported to have read a book longer than a month preceding the survey.

A survey conducted in 2020 indicated that more that a larger share of the print books readership in India, that was ** percent, was constituted by those aged 34 years or younger in the post lockdown period. Comparatively, respondents aged 35 years and above held a larger share of e-book readership in India since the lockdown. India underwent multiple lockdowns between mid-March and July 2020.

The two highest ranking countries when it comes to the book readers in selected countries worldwide, are Spain and Poland. ** percent of respondents from Spain as well as ** percent from Poland state that they read this type of media product. Statista Consumer Insights offer you all results of our exclusive Statista surveys, based on more than ********* interviews.

A survey conducted in 2020 indicated that since the imposition of the lockdown, book consumers in India increased their reading time, with around ** percent of them spending an additional ***** hours or more per week on reading. Prior to the lockdown, Indian readers spent an average of **** hours per week on reading books. India underwent multiple lockdowns between mid-March and *********.

Snapshot img

Books Market Size 2025-2029

The books market size is valued to increase USD 43.1 billion, at a CAGR of 6.3% from 2024 to 2029. Using interactive books for early literacy will drive the books market.

Major Market Trends & Insights

APAC dominated the market and accounted for a 46% growth during the forecast period.
By Type - Adult books segment was valued at USD 39.00 billion in 2023
By Distribution Channel - Local book shops segment accounted for the largest market revenue share in 2023

Market Size & Forecast

Market Opportunities: USD 60.04 billion
Market Future Opportunities: USD 43.10 billion
CAGR : 6.3%
APAC: Largest market in 2023

Market Summary

The market encompasses a dynamic and ever-evolving landscape, driven by advancements in core technologies and applications. Digitalization is a major catalyst, with e-books and audiobooks gaining significant traction, particularly in early literacy and education sectors. According to recent reports, e-books accounted for over 20% of global book sales in 2020. The growing e-commerce and m-commerce sector further bolsters the market, enabling seamless access to an expansive range of titles.
However, concerns regarding digital addiction and privacy issues pose challenges. Regulations, such as the European Union's General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), aim to mitigate these concerns and ensure consumer protection. The market continues to unfold, offering opportunities for innovation and growth.

What will be the Size of the Books Market during the forecast period?

Get Key Insights on Market Forecast (PDF) Request Free Sample

How is the Books Market Segmented and what are the key trends of market segmentation?

The books industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD billion' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments.

Type

  Adult books
  Higher education course materials
  K-12 instructional materials
  Children books
  Others


Distribution Channel

  Local book shops
  Online
  Specialty stores
  Retail shops


Product

  Print books
  Ebooks
  Audiobooks


Geography

  North America

    US
    Canada


  Europe

    France
    Germany
    Italy
    UK


  APAC

    China
    India
    Japan
    South Korea


  Rest of World (ROW)

By Type Insights

The adult books segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.

The market encompasses various aspects, including book cover design, ISBN registration, inventory management systems, retail book sales, wholesale book distribution, hardcover book production, e-book formatting, and printing cost reduction. Publishers invest in supply chain optimization through print-on-demand services, book promotion techniques, author branding, digital book printing, and publisher services. Book review acquisition, audiobook production, book marketing strategies, self-publishing platforms, index creation, e-book conversion services, paperback book binding, paper stock selection, copyright registration, reader engagement, interior book design, proofreading and copyediting, audio book narration, literary agent services, binding techniques, print quality control, book distribution channels, book editing services, and e-book metadata tagging are integral parts of the evolving market.

The adult books segment experiences substantial growth opportunities, with digital educational publications gaining popularity in both classroom-based and virtual learning environments. This segment benefits from the advantages of digital publications, such as cost savings, interaction tools, and multimedia content. Offline bookstores remain the primary distribution channels for adult books. Currently, retail book sales account for 35% of the market share, while wholesale book distribution holds 40%. The e-books segment is expected to expand by 32% in the upcoming years, and self-publishing platforms are projected to increase by 28%. Publishers continue to explore innovative solutions, such as advanced inventory management systems, to streamline operations and cater to diverse customer demands.

In conclusion, the market is a dynamic and continuously evolving industry that offers numerous opportunities for growth and innovation. Publishers and retailers leverage various strategies, including digitalization, cost reduction, and supply chain optimization, to cater to the diverse needs of readers and educational institutions.

Request Free Sample

The Adult books segment was valued at USD 39.00 billion in 2019 and showed a gradual increase during the forecast period.

Request Free Sample

Regional Analysis

APAC is estimated to contribute 46% to the growth of the global market during the forecast period.Technavio's analysts have elaborately explained the regional

Snapshot img

E-Book Market Size 2025-2029

The e-book market size is forecast to increase by USD 14.52 billion, at a CAGR of 10.7% between 2024 and 2029.

Major Market Trends & Insights

North America dominated the market and accounted for a 45% growth during the forecast period.
By the Product - Consumer e-book segment was valued at USD 7.86 billion in 2023
By the Platform - Smartphones segment accounted for the largest market revenue share in 2023

Market Size & Forecast

Market Opportunities: USD 163.63 billion
Market Future Opportunities: USD USD 14.52 billion 
CAGR : 10.7%
North America: Largest market in 2023

Market Summary

The market continues to evolve, with various formats gaining traction among publishers and readers. According to recent studies, the number of e-books sold has surpassed print books, representing a significant shift in consumer preferences. In 2020, e-books accounted for approximately 25% of all book sales, marking a noticeable increase from the previous year. Moreover, the market's dynamism extends to the diverse range of applications across industries. Education, business, and entertainment sectors have embraced e-books due to their convenience, accessibility, and cost-effectiveness.
However, this growth trajectory comes with challenges, such as privacy concerns. Reports indicate that over 50% of e-book users have experienced privacy breaches, with unsecured downloads and unencrypted files being common vulnerabilities. Despite these challenges, the market's continuous evolution underscores its potential for further growth and innovation.

What will be the Size of the E-Book Market during the forecast period?

Explore market size, adoption trends, and growth potential for e-book market Request Free Sample

The market exhibits a steady expansion, with current sales accounting for approximately 20% of the global publishing industry's revenue. This figure underscores the increasing preference for digital content among businesses and consumers alike. Looking ahead, industry experts project a 15% annual growth rate, indicating a significant expansion in the coming years. A comparison of sales trends reveals a noticeable shift towards e-books. In 2015, e-books represented 17% of total book sales, while in 2020, they accounted for 23% of the market.
This growth trajectory underscores the market's continuous evolution and the increasing importance of digital content in the publishing sector. Despite this growth, print books still maintain a substantial market share, accounting for around 77% of total book sales in 2020. However, the gap between e-books and print books is closing, highlighting the potential for further market disruption and growth in the digital publishing space.

How is this E-Book Industry segmented?

The e-book industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD million' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments.

Product

  Consumer e-book
  Professional e-book
  Educational e-book


Platform

  Smartphones
  Tablet and laptops
  Desktops
  Smart TVs


Business Model

  Pay-per-download
  Subscription-based
  Freemium
  Lending/Borrowing


Genre

  Fiction
  Non-fiction
  Young Adult
  Comics/Graphic Novels


Geography

  North America

    US
    Canada


  Europe

    France
    Germany
    Spain
    UK


  Middle East and Africa

    UAE


  APAC

    China
    India
    Japan
    South Korea


  South America

    Brazil


  Rest of World (ROW)

By Product Insights

The consumer e-book segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.

The market, a significant segment of digital content consumption, is experiencing notable growth driven by the increasing popularity of fiction books among readers. Approximately 60% of e-Book sales stem from fiction titles, with young adult literature accounting for a substantial portion of this demand. European countries, including Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, and Belgium, generate a substantial portion of their e-Book revenues from fiction sales. Fiction books, categorized into literary and commercial genres, have seen a surge in demand due to evolving reading habits. The allure of compelling stories has made fiction a preferred choice for many individuals.

For instance, literary fiction offers insightful narratives and character development, while commercial fiction caters to popular trends and genres. Moreover, the adoption of technology and the convenience it offers have contributed to the growth of the market. For example, e-Books can be accessed instantly, and their portability makes them an ideal choice for avid readers. Additionally, e-Books offer features like adjustable font sizes, text-to-speech, and note-taking capabilities, enhancing the

As per the results of a youth survey conducted among 15-34 year olds in India about the frequency of reading religious books, about ** percent of respondents claimed to have never read religious books, while about ***** percent said that they regularly read religious books.

Snapshot img

E-Reader Market Size 2025-2029

The E-reader market size is forecast to increase by USD 10.44 billion, at a CAGR of 7.4% between 2024 and 2029.

The market is driven by two primary factors: the longer battery life of E-readers and the rising adoption of online local language translation modules in e-books. These factors have significantly enhanced the user experience, making E-readers an increasingly attractive alternative to traditional print books. The longer battery life enables extended reading sessions without the need for frequent charging, while online translation modules cater to a global audience by breaking down language barriers. However, the market faces a notable challenge: the lack of color range in E-readers. Cloud storage integration enables users to store and access their libraries from multiple devices, while audiobook playback caters to the needs of commuters and multitaskers.
Companies seeking to capitalize on market opportunities should consider addressing this challenge by investing in color E-reader technology or expanding their product offerings to cater to diverse reader preferences. Effective navigation of this challenge, alongside the continued enhancement of user experience, will be essential for companies looking to succeed in the dynamic market. This limitation may hinder the adoption of E-readers in certain markets, particularly those with a strong preference for color illustrations or graphic novels. Bookmarking and note-taking, adjustable font sizes, and wireless connectivity options cater to diverse reader preferences.

What will be the Size of the E-Reader Market during the forecast period?

Explore in-depth regional segment analysis with market size data - historical 2019-2023 and forecasts 2025-2029 - in the full report.
Request Free Sample

The market continues to evolve, with new technologies and features driving innovation and consumer demand. One key area of focus is PDF rendering quality, ensuring crisp and clear text display for professional documents and academic materials. Operating system support and e-reader software updates are essential for maintaining a seamless user experience. User interface design and screen refresh rate play significant roles in enhancing the overall reading experience. Water resistance rating and cloud storage integration enable readers to take their libraries anywhere, while connectivity protocols and digital rights management offer security and convenience. Power consumption metrics and text reflow capability are crucial for extending battery life, allowing readers to enjoy their content for longer periods.

E-ink display technology and e-reader storage capacity provide a natural reading experience and ample space for extensive collections. Accessibility features, audiobook playback support, and search functionality further expand the market's reach. Security features, integrated dictionary support, memory management systems, reading light adjustment, touchscreen responsiveness, and battery life optimization contribute to a more enjoyable and efficient reading experience. A recent study reveals that the market is projected to grow by 12% annually, as more consumers adopt digital reading solutions. For instance, a leading e-reader manufacturer reported a 30% increase in sales due to the introduction of a new e-reader model with advanced text-to-speech functionality and a backlit e-reader screen.

The market's continuous dynamism is further reflected in the ongoing development of hardware acceleration, processor performance, and file format compatibility. Durable casing materials and content browsing experiences ensure that e-readers remain a popular choice for avid readers.

How is this E-Reader Industry segmented?

The e-reader industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD million' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments.

Capacity

  8 GB
  32 GB
  4 GB


Screen Size

  6-8 inch
  8-10 inch
  Above 10 inch


Distribution Channel

  Online
  Offline


Geography

  North America

    US
    Canada


  Europe

    France
    Germany
    UK


  APAC

    China
    India
    Japan
    South Korea


  South America

    Brazil


  Rest of World (ROW)

By Capacity Insights

The 8 GB segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period. The market is driven by several key features that cater to consumers' evolving reading preferences. An excellent pdf rendering quality ensures a seamless reading experience for academic and professional users. Operating system support and software updates keep devices functional and up-to-date. User interface design, with its intuitive navigation and customizable settings, enhances the overall user experience. A screen refresh rate of 60Hz or higher and water re

According to a youth survey conducted across ***** cities in India in May 2019, it was found that youngsters in metro cities read extra curriculum books more frequently than those from non-metro cities. ** percent of youth living in metro cities had read a book in the week preceding the survey time period, while ** percent of youth in non-metro cities had reported the same.

Snapshot img

Digital Comic Book Market Size 2025-2029

The digital comic book market size is forecast to increase by USD 1.65 billion at a CAGR of 5.5% between 2024 and 2029.

The market is experiencing significant growth, driven by the increasing demand for digital content and the convenience it offers to consumers. This trend is further fueled by the growing number of partnerships and acquisitions in the industry. Digital comics offer convenience and accessibility, allowing readers to enjoy their content on various devices, including smartphones and tablets. 
However, the integration of digital comic books into existing platforms and systems poses challenges, such as compatibility issues and the need for seamless user experiences. To stay competitive, market players must address these challenges and continue to innovate, providing high-quality digital comic book experiences for consumers. The market analysis also highlights the importance of effective marketing strategies and engaging content to attract and retain customers in the highly competitive digital landscape.

What will be the Digital Comic Book Market Size During the Forecast Period?

Request Free Sample

The market has experienced significant growth in recent years, with e-commerce emerging as a popular avenue for consumers to purchase and access their favorite titles. However, this shift from non-digital formats to digital comics has not diminished the demand for traditional comic books. The superhero and action genres, long-standing favorites among comic enthusiasts, continue to thrive in both digital and non-digital formats. The anime industry, with its vast array of genres such as science fiction and manga, also contributes significantly to the market.



Female audiences have become an essential demographic in the market. Publishers like Aftershock Media have recognized this trend and have responded by producing a diverse range of titles that cater to this audience. The positive message and creativity enhancement that comics provide make them an attractive medium for readers of all ages. Comic events, such as Comic-Con, continue to draw large crowds, showcasing the enduring appeal of comic books. Comic collectors, both adults and kids, still value the physical copies of their favorite titles, with auctions and custom comic books being popular substitutes for the traditional reading experience.

How is this market segmented and which is the largest segment?

The market research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD million' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments.

Type

  Paid
  Free


Genre

  Science-fiction
  Manga
  Superhero
  Non-fiction
  Others


End-User

  Kids
  Adults


Geography

  APAC

    China
    India
    Japan
    South Korea


  North America

    Canada
    US


  Europe

    Germany
    France


  South America

    Brazil


  Middle East and Africa

By Type Insights

The paid segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period. The market has experienced steady growth due to the increasing popularity of science fiction genres, particularly among female audiences. This growth can be attributed to several factors, including the success of comic book-based TV shows and movies, as well as the availability of innovative offerings such as discounts for new subscribers. Additionally, the rise in paper pulp and raw material prices has made digital comic books a cost-effective alternative.

Geopolitical issues and advancements in digital technology have also contributed to the market's expansion. Furthermore, the emergence of AI-illustrated comics and non-fungible token (NFT) comics has added new dimensions to the industry. The paid segment of the market is expected to continue growing moderately during the forecast period, driven by the increasing number of subscribers seeking access to the latest releases.

Get a glance at the share of various segments. Request Free Sample

The paid segment was valued at USD 1.53 billion in 2019 and showed a gradual increase during the forecast period.

Regional Analysis

APAC is estimated to contribute 64% to the growth of the global market during the forecast period. Technavio’s analysts have elaborately explained the regional trends and drivers that shape the market during the forecast period.

For more insights on the market share of various regions Request Free Sample

The market in the region is experiencing a significant shift as readers increasingly prefer digital formats over printed books. This trend is driven by the widespread availability of high-speed Internet and the growing number of consumers owning smartphones, tablets, and computers. Publishers are responding to this trend by offering digital comic books in various genres, includ

Snapshot img

Publishing Market Size 2025-2029

The publishing market size is forecast to increase by USD 18.9 million, at a CAGR of 1.2% between 2024 and 2029.

The market is experiencing significant shifts, driven by the increasing demand for diverse content and the surge in self-publishing. Traditional publishing houses face a decreasing market share as more authors opt for self-publishing, empowered by digital content platforms and technological advancements like AR and VR. Tools such as content management systems, e-book distribution channels, and flexible subscription models have made it easier for independent authors and publishers to reach readers globally.
This trend challenges established publishing businesses to adapt and innovate, focusing on niche markets and value-added services such as author platform services and editorial workflow management. Simultaneously, the demand for diverse content continues to grow, fueled by evolving reader preferences and societal trends. Publishers must respond by expanding their content offerings and fostering inclusivity, supported by content syndication networks and optimized metadata strategies that enhance discoverability.
As the digital landscape grows, investments in SEO for publishers, open access publishing, and streamlined peer review processes are becoming crucial. Additionally, production workflows benefit from modern book formatting services and professional typesetting software, which ensure high-quality output across formats.

What will be the Size of the Publishing Market during the forecast period?

Request Free Sample

The digital publishing services market is evolving rapidly with the integration of advanced content creation tools and publishing software that empower creators to seamlessly produce and distribute written and multimedia content. Platforms offering self publishing services and ebook conversion services enable authors to access global distribution networks while retaining control over their work.

Key services such as book marketing services, audiobook production, and interactive ebooks have expanded creative and commercial possibilities. Publishers are exploring enhanced ebooks with immersive media features, aligning with the rise in multimedia publishing trends. Efficient online publishing platforms offer authors direct access to readership while streamlining royalty accounting, rights management, and digital rights management functions.

Operational excellence is supported by editorial calendar management, print quality control, and supply chain efficiency, which ensure timely releases and consistent quality. Strategic functions like marketing campaign management, subscription management, and advertising management are increasingly data-driven, informed by tools like reader analytics, revenue tracking, and cost optimization dashboards. Additionally, publishers now rely on content discovery mechanisms, customer journey mapping, and social listening insights to refine their targeting strategies. The future of publishing is shaped by dynamic feedback loops, real-time data visualization, and smart automation that keep creators connected with audiences across every touchpoint in the content lifecycle.

How is this Publishing Industry segmented?

The publishing industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD million' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments.

Platform

  Traditional
  Digital


Type

  Book publishing
  Magazine publishing
  Newspaper publishing


Distribution Channel

  Retail
  Online
  Subscription
  Libraries/Institutional


Geography

  North America

    US
    Canada


  Europe

    France
    Germany
    UK


  Middle East and Africa

    UAE


  APAC

    China
    India
    Japan


  South America

    Brazil


  Rest of World (ROW)

By Platform Insights

The traditional segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.

In the publishing industry, traditional methods continue to thrive in specific niches where consumers value the tactile experience of printed books. These sectors include cookbooks, art books, and children's literature. Traditional publishing encompasses various formats, with print newspapers being a significant revenue generator for news publishers. In 2024, print newspapers accounted for a substantial portion of the traditional segment's earnings. However, the digital platform's rise has led to a significant decrease in print newspaper revenue, a trend expected to persist. Publishing agreements are crucial in the industry, ensuring fair compensation for authors while maintaining control over content.

Author services provide essential assistance to writers, from editing to marketing. Subscription publishing offers readers continuous access to content

As of August 2018, a staggering half a billion Harry Potter books had sold worldwide, *********** of which were sold in the United States. British author J.K. Rowling published her first book, ‘Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone’ in the United Kingdom in 1997, and the American edition was released in the following year – with some changes.

Changes to J.K. Rowling’s novels outside the UK

In the United States, India, and Pakistan, the title ‘Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone’ was altered to ‘Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone’. The change was made after Arthur Levine from Scholastic stated that he believed the word ‘philosopher’ was too ‘archaic’ for readers and expressed concerns that readers would not relate to the book’s original title. Rowling herself has since said she regretted allowing this change but did not feel she was in a strong enough position to challenge it at the time. Whether the change had a significant effect on readers choosing to buy and read the book is unclear, but the book remains popular on a global level decades after its publication. As of November 2018, close to *********** Goodreads members worldwide included the novel on their ‘to be read’ lists.

Other changes made were of the linguistic nature, to cater for readers used to American English. For the benefit of U.S. readers, the British word ‘mum’, as well as Irish term ‘mam’ used by the character Seamus Finnigan, were changed to ‘mom’. Other words were also changed to suit an American audience, including ‘jumper’ to ‘sweater’, ‘sweets’ to ‘candy’, and ‘windscreen’ to ‘windshield’.

Another change which affected the books and their author on a global level was the creation of Rowling’s pen name. Rather than publishing the books under the name Jo or Joanne Rowling, the author was advised to use initials to disguise her gender in order to appeal to boys as well as girls. It was thought that despite the book being considered suitable and relatable for both genders, that young boys may not choose or relate to a book written by a woman. Years later, favorability of J.K. Rowling among men and women is almost identical.