Indusfood 2026 inauguration took place on January 8, 2026, at Expo Mart, Greater Noida, with Shri Chirag Paswan, Union Minister of Food Processing Industries, Government of India, officially opening Asia’s premier food and beverage trade show. This marks the largest edition of Indusfood to date, spanning over 120,000 square metres and bringing together the global food ecosystem under one roof.
The event witnessed the presence of key dignitaries including Shri Abhishek Dev, Chairman of APEDA; Mr. Mohit Singla, Chairman of the Trade Promotion Council of India (TPCI); Mr. Jens Wolfgang Michel, CEO of Abu Dhabi Food Hub (KEZAD); Mr. Ashish Kumar Agrawal, Managing Director of Bhikharam Chandmal; along with industry leaders, buyers, exhibitors, and international delegates.
Government Support for Food Processing Sector
Addressing the gathering during the Indusfood 2026 inauguration, Shri Chirag Paswan emphasized the Government of India’s strong commitment to the food processing sector. He noted that the existence of a dedicated ministry itself underlines the strategic importance of the industry.
“We are trying to be a bridge between the government and the industry,” the Minister said, congratulating TPCI on organizing the 9th successful edition of Indusfood and providing a large global platform for Indian and international businesses.
Converting Food Surplus Into Global Value
During the Indusfood 2026 inauguration, the Minister highlighted that India has become food surplus and must now focus on converting volume into value. He stressed India’s untapped potential to emerge as the global food basket and urged industry stakeholders to channelize resources effectively.
He added that schemes such as PM Formalization of Micro Food Processing Enterprises (PMFME), Pradhan Mantri Kisan SAMPADA Yojana (PMKSY), and the National Institute of Food Technology Entrepreneurship and Management are supporting farmers and entrepreneurs alike. The Minister also announced plans to expand the reach of food technology institutes to more states.
Policy Reforms and Ease of Doing Business
Reiterating policy support during the Indusfood 2026 inauguration, Shri Paswan said the government stands firmly behind the food processing industry. He pointed out that high GST rates affecting the sector were addressed through reforms, with many food products now falling under the lowest GST slabs of 5% or even 0%, significantly improving market access.
The Minister also encouraged global and Indian brands to establish R&D centres in India, citing the country’s vast diversity and potential to introduce new food innovations to the global market.
APEDA Launches BHARATI Initiative
At the Indusfood 2026 inauguration, APEDA Chairman Shri Abhishek Dev announced the launch of BHARATI—Bharat’s Hub for Agritech, Resilience, Advancement and Incubation for Export Enablement. The initiative aims to support agri-food and agri-tech startups by fostering innovation and creating new export opportunities for young entrepreneurs.
Record Scale and Global Participation
Highlighting the scale of the event during the Indusfood 2026 inauguration, the Chairman of TPCI stated that the trade show features over 2,200 exhibitors from more than 30 countries, spread across approximately 125,000 square metres, and hosts over 15,000 buyers from 120+ countries.
This edition also introduced two new pavilions—Pet Food & Animal Nutrition and Cookware & Kitchenware—reflecting evolving global demand driven by wellness trends, premiumisation, sustainability, and lifestyle changes.
Knowledge Platforms and Global Partnerships
In partnership with IFCA, TPCI is hosting the World Culinary Heritage Conference 2026 alongside more than 40 knowledge sessions featuring 150+ speakers. These discussions focus on investments, exports, regulations, AI, automation, and future food ecosystems.
During the Indusfood 2026 inauguration, the CEO of Abu Dhabi Food Hub highlighted India–UAE collaboration and announced an MoU with TPCI for the India–UAE Food Corridor, reinforcing sustainable trade practices between the two regions.
India’s Growing Food Export Strength
India’s food and beverage exports stood at USD 47.3 billion in FY 2024–25, with processed food exports reaching USD 7.9 billion, led by strong growth in cocoa and related products. The Indusfood 2026 inauguration underscored India’s growing role in global food trade and value-added exports.
The Bottom Line
Indusfood 2026 inauguration reflects India’s rising stature in the global food and beverage industry. With strong government backing, record international participation, and a focus on innovation, exports, and value addition, Indusfood 2026 sets the stage for India’s next phase of growth as a global food powerhouse.