As many of the world's leading publishing houses concentrate on
China's English language book market, HarperCollins, a subsidiary
of News Corporation, is trying a different approach: taking China's
famous literary works overseas.
One of the largest English-language publishers in the world,
HarperCollins has signed an agreement with the People's Literature
Publishing House to translate and publish famous Chinese literary
works overseas.
"As a global publishing company, we see English translation of
Chinese literary works as an under-served category and therefore an
opportunity," said Jane Friedman, HarperCollins Publishers
worldwide president and chief executive officer.
Initially five classic Chinese titles will be published for the
English-speaking market. The company will work with a university in
the United States to develop the publishing program.
China's economy and growing publishing industry present many
opportunities for HarperCollins and it will continue to grow its
business in China at a fast rate, said Stella Chou, managing
director of HarperCollins China Business Development.
A subsidiary of News Corporation, HarperCollins' China business
focuses on expanding the licensing of titles to Chinese publishers,
increasing the marketing and promotion of its English language
books, and partnering with local publishing houses to produce joint
titles.
"Last year our sales figures in China reached US$1 million. This
year we will initiate a series of new programs in China to promote
our brand," said Chou.
(China Daily September 9, 2006)
