China International Publishing Group (CIPG) has intensified its program of making more books about China available to South Africans who want to know more about the Asian country, an official from the group said.

Li Jianguo,Chief of Africa Bureau of Beijing Review underCIPG, said in an interview with XinhuaNews Agencythat his organization is in full force to introduce China to South African readers through availing books, magazines andInternet sites that provide a variety of information about China.

CIPG attended this year's South African Book Fair held from July 31 to August2, 2015 in Johannesburg. Li said the interest from the general public was overwhelming.

"We had many people coming to our stand and asking many questions about China," said Li."Many of themsaid they wouldcome to our bookshop to order a variety of books that can give them more information about China."

He said this was the first of many displays the CIPGhas planned for South Africa where books on Chinese history, languages, research, academics, culture and economic development are showcased.

"We are showcasing these books because China has become more and more important in the world," said Li. He noted that with China's fast economic growth, more and more people want to know more about the country and how it is able to make such impressive economic progress.

Li also said good bilateral relations betweenChina andSouth Africa has attracted an interest into Chinese history and languages.

Lu Anqi,aneditor and correspondent ofChinAfricamagazine, said China is becoming a key player in the world's economy and politics.

"There is increased demand for information on China's politics, economy, and social issues," said Lu."Many people think that China's fast economic development is a miracle and they are keen to learn how China is doing it so that they apply it in their countries. Through bringing these books,we are hoping many people will learn a lot from China."

One of the popular books that have generated a lot of interest isXi Jinping: The Governance of China. The book contains Chinese President Xi Jinping'sstatements and speeches delivered at various platforms.

According to this book, "His speeches embody the philosophy of the new central leadership of China."

Lu said it is a highly inspirational book desired by many.

"Many people inside and outside China love this book. It gives them a lot of inspiration and answers many of their questions on China's successful economic development," said Lu.