Three leading publishing and distribution companies - Alpha Books, Dong A and First News - have officially signed an agreement to establish the Vietnam Reading Alliance (VRA), opening a new path for collaboration in the publishing sector amid ongoing transformation and global integration.

The launch ceremony took place at Tram Doc (Reading Station) in Hanoi, marking a shift from fragmented cooperation to a structured model with long-term commitments. According to the founding members, the alliance is designed to realize broader goals of fostering reading culture, improving publishing quality and contributing to a learning society.

VRA is structured as a voluntary alliance operating on principles of equality and transparency. Rather than replacing individual roles, it serves as a platform to connect members, enabling coordinated actions and amplifying community impact.

Its long-term mission is to promote reading, elevate publishing standards and build a modern, culturally rich industry where knowledge serves as the foundation for sustainable growth.

In its initial phase, VRA has identified six key areas of focus: organizing book fairs nationwide; promoting reading movements in communities; developing reading spaces in schools; building private and corporate library systems; combating piracy and protecting copyright; and training human resources for the publishing sector.

Notably, the alliance aims to expand access to knowledge beyond traditional educational settings, working toward a lifelong learning community in which books play a central role.

A distinctive feature of VRA is its non-profit operational model at the alliance level. Each project will be led by a designated member, with transparent cost structures and shared risks and benefits based on participation.

Members have also committed to maintaining fair pricing and preserving existing distribution systems, contributing to a more transparent and healthy publishing environment.

Representatives of the founding organizations believe that, in a context where the publishing industry faces multiple challenges, the alliance model will enhance competitiveness while delivering greater value to society.

Beyond book sales, future book fairs are expected to evolve into integrated cultural spaces, combining exhibitions, music and art to inspire a deeper connection with reading.

Tinh Le