Transnational Publishing Groups in Peru: Dynamics, Transformations, and Challenges in the Peruvian Publishing Industry (2000-2024)

Abstract

This article analyzes the effects of the arrival of transnational publishing groups such as Planeta and Penguin Random House (PRH) on the Peruvian book industry between 2000 and 2019. The study is based on Bourdieu and Thompson’s concept of “publishing field”, where various capitals influence the position of the actos. It highlights the scarcity of previous intellectual production on the Peruvian publishing industry. The Peruvian publishing sector in the 20th century was characterized by its irregularity, lack of public policies and specific legislation, and unstable production. The absence of a Book Law and self-publishing by authors limited professionalization. The entry of transnational companies boosted the sector by increasing the supply and circulation of international books, although this generated a preference for foreign books and evidenced the precariousness of local editions. The professionalization of the sector was driven by the demand for specialized talent and the creation of permanent jobs. Regarding the internationalization of Peruvian authors, there was an increase in publications by PRH imprints and their presence at international events such as the Guadalajara Book Fair. However, despite the “good figures” in translations, a “false hope” of automatic internationalization was generated. In short, transnationalization brought benefits such as long-term planning and professionalization, but also caused the dilution of some imprints and irregularity in local production. The article emphasizes the urgent need for quantitative and qualitative studies on the Peruvian publishing market to obtain accurate conclusions on its performance and impact.