India Shines as Partner Country at Gulfood 2026

India has taken a center stage at Gulfood 2026, the world’s largest annual food and beverage trade exhibition, as the official Partner Country. This marks a historic moment for Indian agri-food exports, underscoring the country’s growing global influence in the food and beverage sector. For the first time in the event’s 31-year history, Gulfood has expanded across two major venues the Dubai World Trade Centre and the Dubai Exhibition Centre at Expo City Dubai reflecting the increasing scale and global significance of the exhibition.

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India’s Largest-Ever Pavilion and Showcase

India’s pavilion at Gulfood 2026, spanning approximately 1,434 square meters, is the largest in its history at this exhibition. Led by the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, the pavilion features over 600 exhibitors from across the country, representing a diverse range of stakeholders including traditional exporters, farmer-producer organizations, cooperatives, state agencies, and innovative startups. The showcase spans a wide spectrum of products, from staples like Basmati rice and pulses to processed foods, beverages, organic products, and value-added items, highlighting India’s commitment to quality, sustainability, and compliance with international standards.

The pavilion also emphasizes India’s thriving startup ecosystem, featuring emerging companies under APEDA’s BHARATI initiative, which focuses on agritech solutions for export-oriented agriculture. These startups are showcasing innovative technologies and sustainable practices, reflecting India’s push towards modernizing its agri-food sector while maintaining global competitiveness.

Global Engagement and Investment Promotion

A high-level delegation from the Ministry of Food Processing Industries and Invest India is present at Gulfood to engage with global buyers, investors, and industry leaders. Beyond product exhibitions, India’s participation aims to promote foreign investment in its food processing and allied sectors, positioning the country as a preferred destination for agri-business and export-oriented growth. Additionally, the Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO) is presenting a dedicated showcase focusing on high-demand products such as Basmati rice and cereals, reinforcing India’s position as a reliable global supplier.

This participation allows India to strengthen buyer-seller linkages, explore co-manufacturing opportunities, and expand market access for its products. It also emphasizes India’s commitment to innovation and sustainability in food production, which is increasingly valued in global trade markets.

Strengthening India-UAE Trade Ties

India’s designation as Partner Country at Gulfood 2026 is also strategically significant in the context of India-UAE trade relations. Under the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), Indian agricultural exports have gained enhanced access to UAE markets, making the country a key gateway for Indian products in the Middle East. The event provides a platform for India to reinforce bilateral economic cooperation, promote resilient and high-quality supply chains, and highlight its role as a global supplier of diversified food products.

The Gulfood World Economy Summit, held alongside the exhibition, facilitates dialogue between global stakeholders on trade facilitation, supply chain resilience, and investment opportunities. India’s active engagement in these discussions further strengthens its positioning as a major partner in global food trade and logistics.

The MGMM Outlook

India’s role as the official Partner Country at Gulfood 2026 highlights its expanding influence in the global food and beverage sector. With the largest-ever pavilion in the event’s history, spanning 1,434 square meters and featuring over 600 exhibitors, India showcased an extensive range of products from staples like Basmati rice and pulses to processed foods, beverages, organic items, and value-added products. The exhibition also spotlighted India’s dynamic startup ecosystem through APEDA’s BHARATI initiative, which promotes innovative agritech solutions and sustainable practices. By combining traditional expertise with modern technological advancements, India demonstrated its commitment to quality, sustainability, and global competitiveness in the agri-food industry.

Beyond product exhibitions, India leveraged the platform to engage with global buyers, investors, and industry leaders, promoting investment in its food processing and allied sectors. The participation reinforced trade linkages, explored co-manufacturing opportunities, and expanded market access under the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement with the UAE. By emphasizing innovation, sustainable production practices, and reliable supply chains, India positioned itself as a key partner in international food trade, strengthening bilateral economic cooperation and cementing its role as a significant player in shaping the future of global agri-food markets.

(Sources: Economic Times, DD News)