Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal will inaugurate the 40th edition of AAHAR 2026, one of the world’s leading B2B trade exhibitions for the food and hospitality industry, on March 10 at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi.

Organised by the India Trade Promotion Organisation (ITPO), the five-day international exhibition will run from March 10 to March 14, 2026, bringing together food producers, exporters, hospitality companies, technology providers, and global buyers on a single platform to explore new business opportunities and partnerships.

A Major Platform for the Food and Hospitality Industry

Over the past four decades, AAHAR has grown into one of Asia’s most influential trade fairs for the food processing and hospitality ecosystem.

According to Jawed Ashraf, the exhibition connects two vital sectors of India’s economy — agriculture and hospitality.

He noted that the event plays an important role in strengthening linkages between farm-based industries and the country’s expanding hospitality sector, making it a key meeting point for businesses and policymakers.

Large Global Participation Expected

This year’s exhibition is expected to witness strong domestic and international participation.

• Exhibition space: 1,25,000 sq metres

• Total exhibitors: Around 1,800

• International participation: Exhibitors from 17 countries, including 155 international participants

The event will showcase innovations across several sectors, including:

• Food products and beverages

• Food processing and value addition

• Food packaging and processing technology

• Hospitality equipment and infrastructure

• Cold chain and refrigeration technology

• Food-grade packaging solutions

• Export promotion and global trade opportunities

Italy Joins as Partner Country

For the first time in its history, AAHAR 2026 will feature a partner country, with Italy taking the role this year.

The partnership highlights growing collaboration between India and the European Union in areas such as food processing, gourmet products, and hospitality technology. It is also expected to open new avenues for trade and investment, particularly as discussions around an India–EU Free Trade Agreement progress.

Industry Pavilions and Events

The exhibition will feature several specialised pavilions and industry platforms, including:

• Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) Pavilion

• Ministry of Food Processing Industries Pavilion

• Foreign Participation Pavilion

• Forum of Indian Food Importers (FIFI) Pavilion

• ICMA Pavilion

Industry events such as Hospitality Challenge and Culinary Art India 2026 will also be organised as part of the exhibition.

Several industry associations are supporting the event, including the All India Food Processors Association, Federation of All India Caterers, Food & Hospitality Support Association of India, and Hotel & Restaurant Equipment Manufacturers Association of India.

New Mobile App for AAHAR 2026

During the curtain raiser event, ITPO also launched the AAHAR 2026 Official Mobile App to enhance visitor engagement and networking.

The app will allow participants to:

• Access a digital exhibitor directory

• Navigate interactive floor maps

• Schedule B2B meetings

• Use smart search filters

• Receive real-time event updates

Promoting India’s Food Processing Sector

Over the past 40 years, AAHAR has played a key role in promoting India’s food processing industry, supporting MSMEs, and strengthening the hospitality sector.

By bringing together global businesses, policymakers, and industry experts, the event continues to serve as an important platform for innovation, trade partnerships, and growth in the food and hospitality industry.

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