Market Forecast by Regions and Countries (North America, Europe, LATAM, Middle East, Asia and Africa), By Type (Science, Historical, Mystery, Fantasy, Literary, Others (Classic, Biographies) ), By Distribution Channel (Online, Local Book Shops, Retail Shops, Specialty Stores), By Format (Hard Copy, E-Book, Audiobooks) And Competitive Landscape
Product Code: ETC13244519 | Publication Date: Apr 2025 | Updated Date: Jun 2025 | Product Type: Market Research Report | |
Publisher: 6Wresearch | No. of Pages: 190 | No. of Figures: 80 | No. of Tables: 40 | |
According to 6wresearch internal database and industry insights, the global books market has witnessed steady growth over recent years and is projected to continue on an upward trajectory. According to market research, the books market was valued at approximately USD 138 billion in 2024 and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.9% from 2025 to 2031.
Report Name | Global Books Market |
Report Category | Coverage – Global |
Forecast Period | 2025-2031 |
CAGR | 5.9% |
Market Size | USD 234 billion by 2031 |
Growing Sector | Education |
The Global Books Market report thoroughly covers the market by Distribution Channel, type Format and Regions. The market report provides an unbiased and detailed analysis of the ongoing market trends, opportunities/high growth areas, and market drivers which would help the stakeholders to devise and align their market strategies according to the current and future market dynamics.
The global books market demonstrates a dynamic and diverse landscape, which caters an evolving needs of consumer preferences. Another factor is the rising technological advancements that are transforming the publishing industry, with e-books and audiobooks have been gaining momentum among tech-savvy readers. Despite this digital shift, physical books are estimated to hold the market dominance, influenced by readers who appreciate the tactile experience. Educational publishing represents a major segment, driven by the growing demand for learning resources and academic materials.
Global Books Market is expected to grow at a significant CAGR of 5.9% during the forecast period 2025-2031. The global books market growth has been propelled by several drivers. One of the major factors is a rise in the demand for digital books, driven by the proliferation of e-readers and mobile devices across the globe. The accessibility to a wide range of titles, along with naturally conscious consumption, is making digital formats increasingly popular. Another major driver is the rising self-publishing platforms, which enable authors to reach global audiences without traditional publishing limitations. Furthermore, the industry’s revenue is estimated to increase with audiobooks are gaining popularity, predominantly among on-the-go audiences and younger.
However, the market faces its share of challenges. The rise of digital content has also led to increased competition from other forms of entertainment such as video streaming and online gaming, which vie for consumers' attention. Furthermore, piracy remains a persistent issue, impacting revenue streams for publishers and authors alike. Economic factors, such as fluctuations in disposable income and pricing pressures, can also limit book sales in certain regions. Despite these challenges, the books market continues to evolve, adapting to technological innovations and changing consumer preferences.
The global books market is witnessing a dynamic shift driven by digitalization and evolving consumer habits. E-books and audiobooks are growing in popularity, attracting tech-savvy readers who value convenience and accessibility. Subscription services and digital libraries are also on the rise, providing affordable and diverse reading options to a wide audience. Additionally, the demand for niche genres and independent authors is increasing, highlighting a move toward more personalized and diverse content consumption. Physical books, however, continue to hold their charm, with limited-edition prints and specialty formats thriving among collectors and enthusiasts.
The global books industry offers promising investment opportunities across various segments. The expansion of online retail platforms and direct-to-consumer sales channels has made it easier for investors to tap into emerging markets. Furthermore, the growing popularity of audiobooks presents a lucrative prospect for investment in production and distribution technologies. Independent publishing platforms and print-on-demand services are also creating fresh opportunities for small publishers and authors to reach wider audiences. Investments in green publishing, such as eco-friendly printing and sustainable materials, are gaining traction as environmental consciousness becomes a key focus across industries.
The global books market is shaped by a mix of major multinational companies and smaller, independent publishers. Leading players include Penguin Random House, Hachette Livre, HarperCollins, Macmillan Publishers, and Simon & Schuster, which collectively dominate a significant portion of the market. These companies boast extensive distribution networks, strategic partnerships, and a diverse catalog of bestsellers and classics.
Governments across the globe have implemented various regulations to ensure fair practices and promote cultural heritage within the books market. Pricing regulations, such as fixed book price policies in several European countries, aim to protect small booksellers and foster fair competition. Copyright laws remain a central aspect of the industry, safeguarding authors' intellectual property rights and incentivizing creativity. Regulations around digital content, including e-books and audiobooks, vary by region but are increasingly focused on transparency, data privacy, and accessibility compliance.
The global books market is poised for significant evolution in the coming years, driven by advancements in technology and shifting consumer preferences. The continued expansion of digital platforms is expected to enhance accessibility and convenience for readers worldwide. The integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning in content creation and marketing is also likely to reshape the way books are produced and distributed. Sustainability will remain a central focus, with publishers adopting environmentally friendly practices to reduce their carbon footprint.
The report offers a comprehensive study of the subsequent market segments and their leading categories.
Among book types, fantasy and mystery genres are leading the global books market, capturing the imaginations of readers worldwide. The literary fiction category also holds a significant share, fueled by demand for critically acclaimed works.
According to Ravi Bhandari, Research Head, 6Wresearch, North America and Europe continue to dominate the market, driven by high literacy rates and a well-established publishing industry.
The market report provides a detailed analysis of the following market segments:
Global Books Market |
1 Executive Summary |
2 Introduction |
2.1 Key Highlights of the Report |
2.2 Report Description |
2.3 Market Scope & Segmentation |
2.4 Research Methodology |
2.5 Assumptions |
3 Global Books Market Overview |
3.1 Global Regional Macro Economic Indicators |
3.2 Global Books Market Revenues & Volume, 2021 & 2031F |
3.3 Global Books Market - Industry Life Cycle |
3.4 Global Books Market - Porter's Five Forces |
3.5 Global Books Market Revenues & Volume Share, By Regions, 2021 & 2031F |
3.6 Global Books Market Revenues & Volume Share, By Type, 2021 & 2031F |
3.7 Global Books Market Revenues & Volume Share, By Distribution Channel, 2021 & 2031F |
3.8 Global Books Market Revenues & Volume Share, By Format, 2021 & 2031F |
4 Global Books Market Dynamics |
4.1 Impact Analysis |
4.2 Market Drivers |
4.3 Market Restraints |
5 Global Books Market Trends |
6 Global Books Market, 2021 - 2031 |
6.1 Global Books Market, Revenues & Volume, By Type, 2021 - 2031 |
6.1.1 Overview & Analysis |
6.1.2 Global Books Market, Revenues & Volume, By Science, 2021 - 2031 |
6.1.3 Global Books Market, Revenues & Volume, By Historical, 2021 - 2031 |
6.1.4 Global Books Market, Revenues & Volume, By Mystery, 2021 - 2031 |
6.1.5 Global Books Market, Revenues & Volume, By Fantasy, 2021 - 2031 |
6.1.6 Global Books Market, Revenues & Volume, By Literary, 2021 - 2031 |
6.1.7 Global Books Market, Revenues & Volume, By Others (Classic, Biographies) , 2021 - 2031 |
6.2 Global Books Market, Revenues & Volume, By Distribution Channel, 2021 - 2031 |
6.2.1 Overview & Analysis |
6.2.2 Global Books Market, Revenues & Volume, By Online, 2021 - 2031 |
6.2.3 Global Books Market, Revenues & Volume, By Local Book Shops, 2021 - 2031 |
6.2.4 Global Books Market, Revenues & Volume, By Retail Shops, 2021 - 2031 |
6.2.5 Global Books Market, Revenues & Volume, By Specialty Stores, 2021 - 2031 |
6.3 Global Books Market, Revenues & Volume, By Format, 2021 - 2031 |
6.3.1 Overview & Analysis |
6.3.2 Global Books Market, Revenues & Volume, By Hard Copy, 2021 - 2031 |
6.3.3 Global Books Market, Revenues & Volume, By E-Book, 2021 - 2031 |
6.3.4 Global Books Market, Revenues & Volume, By Audiobooks, 2021 - 2031 |
7 North America Books Market, Overview & Analysis |
7.1 North America Books Market Revenues & Volume, 2021 - 2031 |
7.2 North America Books Market, Revenues & Volume, By Countries, 2021 - 2031 |
7.2.1 United States (US) Books Market, Revenues & Volume, 2021 - 2031 |
7.2.2 Canada Books Market, Revenues & Volume, 2021 - 2031 |
7.2.3 Rest of North America Books Market, Revenues & Volume, 2021 - 2031 |
7.3 North America Books Market, Revenues & Volume, By Type, 2021 - 2031 |
7.4 North America Books Market, Revenues & Volume, By Distribution Channel, 2021 - 2031 |
7.5 North America Books Market, Revenues & Volume, By Format, 2021 - 2031 |
8 Latin America (LATAM) Books Market, Overview & Analysis |
8.1 Latin America (LATAM) Books Market Revenues & Volume, 2021 - 2031 |
8.2 Latin America (LATAM) Books Market, Revenues & Volume, By Countries, 2021 - 2031 |
8.2.1 Brazil Books Market, Revenues & Volume, 2021 - 2031 |
8.2.2 Mexico Books Market, Revenues & Volume, 2021 - 2031 |
8.2.3 Argentina Books Market, Revenues & Volume, 2021 - 2031 |
8.2.4 Rest of LATAM Books Market, Revenues & Volume, 2021 - 2031 |
8.3 Latin America (LATAM) Books Market, Revenues & Volume, By Type, 2021 - 2031 |
8.4 Latin America (LATAM) Books Market, Revenues & Volume, By Distribution Channel, 2021 - 2031 |
8.5 Latin America (LATAM) Books Market, Revenues & Volume, By Format, 2021 - 2031 |
9 Asia Books Market, Overview & Analysis |
9.1 Asia Books Market Revenues & Volume, 2021 - 2031 |
9.2 Asia Books Market, Revenues & Volume, By Countries, 2021 - 2031 |
9.2.1 India Books Market, Revenues & Volume, 2021 - 2031 |
9.2.2 China Books Market, Revenues & Volume, 2021 - 2031 |
9.2.3 Japan Books Market, Revenues & Volume, 2021 - 2031 |
9.2.4 Rest of Asia Books Market, Revenues & Volume, 2021 - 2031 |
9.3 Asia Books Market, Revenues & Volume, By Type, 2021 - 2031 |
9.4 Asia Books Market, Revenues & Volume, By Distribution Channel, 2021 - 2031 |
9.5 Asia Books Market, Revenues & Volume, By Format, 2021 - 2031 |
10 Africa Books Market, Overview & Analysis |
10.1 Africa Books Market Revenues & Volume, 2021 - 2031 |
10.2 Africa Books Market, Revenues & Volume, By Countries, 2021 - 2031 |
10.2.1 South Africa Books Market, Revenues & Volume, 2021 - 2031 |
10.2.2 Egypt Books Market, Revenues & Volume, 2021 - 2031 |
10.2.3 Nigeria Books Market, Revenues & Volume, 2021 - 2031 |
10.2.4 Rest of Africa Books Market, Revenues & Volume, 2021 - 2031 |
10.3 Africa Books Market, Revenues & Volume, By Type, 2021 - 2031 |
10.4 Africa Books Market, Revenues & Volume, By Distribution Channel, 2021 - 2031 |
10.5 Africa Books Market, Revenues & Volume, By Format, 2021 - 2031 |
11 Europe Books Market, Overview & Analysis |
11.1 Europe Books Market Revenues & Volume, 2021 - 2031 |
11.2 Europe Books Market, Revenues & Volume, By Countries, 2021 - 2031 |
11.2.1 United Kingdom Books Market, Revenues & Volume, 2021 - 2031 |
11.2.2 Germany Books Market, Revenues & Volume, 2021 - 2031 |
11.2.3 France Books Market, Revenues & Volume, 2021 - 2031 |
11.2.4 Rest of Europe Books Market, Revenues & Volume, 2021 - 2031 |
11.3 Europe Books Market, Revenues & Volume, By Type, 2021 - 2031 |
11.4 Europe Books Market, Revenues & Volume, By Distribution Channel, 2021 - 2031 |
11.5 Europe Books Market, Revenues & Volume, By Format, 2021 - 2031 |
12 Middle East Books Market, Overview & Analysis |
12.1 Middle East Books Market Revenues & Volume, 2021 - 2031 |
12.2 Middle East Books Market, Revenues & Volume, By Countries, 2021 - 2031 |
12.2.1 Saudi Arabia Books Market, Revenues & Volume, 2021 - 2031 |
12.2.2 UAE Books Market, Revenues & Volume, 2021 - 2031 |
12.2.3 Turkey Books Market, Revenues & Volume, 2021 - 2031 |
12.3 Middle East Books Market, Revenues & Volume, By Type, 2021 - 2031 |
12.4 Middle East Books Market, Revenues & Volume, By Distribution Channel, 2021 - 2031 |
12.5 Middle East Books Market, Revenues & Volume, By Format, 2021 - 2031 |
13 Global Books Market Key Performance Indicators |
14 Global Books Market - Export/Import By Countries Assessment |
15 Global Books Market - Opportunity Assessment |
15.1 Global Books Market Opportunity Assessment, By Countries, 2021 & 2031F |
15.2 Global Books Market Opportunity Assessment, By Type, 2021 & 2031F |
15.3 Global Books Market Opportunity Assessment, By Distribution Channel, 2021 & 2031F |
15.4 Global Books Market Opportunity Assessment, By Format, 2021 & 2031F |
16 Global Books Market - Competitive Landscape |
16.1 Global Books Market Revenue Share, By Companies, 2024 |
16.2 Global Books Market Competitive Benchmarking, By Operating and Technical Parameters |
17 Top 10 Company Profiles |
18 Recommendations |
19 Disclaimer |