NIQ BookData says adult fiction tops one-third of print book sales in H1 2026 international markets
NIQ•NIQ Global Intelligence’s first-half 2026 review found revenue growth in 11 of 19 territories, with India up 16.7% and Brazil up 12.6%. Adult fiction exceeded one-third of printed books sold.
1. Market results
The review found revenue growth in 11 of 19 territories. India led with a 16.7% increase, while Brazil rose 12.6%; Poland fell 11.7% and France declined 5.4%.
2. Sales by category
Unit sales increased in nine territories. France sold 124 million books, while UK volume slipped 1.1% to 82 million. Adult fiction exceeded one-third of printed books sold, and graphic novels recorded value growth above 30% in many markets. Non-fiction recorded value growth in only four countries, while personal development declined across all territories except New Zealand.
