India’s Gulfood 2026 showcase highlights its leadership in agri-food trade, startup innovation, and global culinary appeal through APEDA-led initiatives.
DUBAI: With India as the official Partner Country, the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) is making a powerful impact at Gulfood 2026 with its most ambitious participation to date. Representing the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India, APEDA is reinforcing India’s rising stature in global agri-food trade and its vital role in ensuring global food security and resilient supply chains.
The Indian Pavilion has doubled in size compared to last year, spanning an impressive 1,434 square metres and featuring 161 exhibitors across categories such as processed foods, grains, cereals, beverages, fresh and frozen produce, and value-added products. This comprehensive presence includes exporters, Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs), state government agencies, cooperatives, and startups, reflecting India’s growing export readiness and rich regional food diversity.
With participants from 25 Indian states and regions — including Gujarat, Punjab, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, Kerala, and Sikkim — the Pavilion showcases region-specific items like GI-tagged products, organic produce, and traditional agri-commodities. This year-on-year scale-up reflects increasing international demand for Indian agri-exports and stronger engagement with global trade.
A major highlight is the BHARATI Pavilion, APEDA’s flagship initiative to support export-ready agri-tech and food startups. Located in the Startup Zone at Dubai World Trade Centre, it features eight high-potential Indian startups selected through a national process. These startups are presenting cutting-edge products and tech-driven solutions aligned with APEDA’s “Farm to Foreign” mission.
Kamal Vachani, Group Director and Partner, Al Maya Group:
“We are proud to see India recognised as the Partner Country at Gulfood 2026 — a testament to the strong and evolving trade relationship between India and the UAE. With India’s expanded presence across two venues, this year offers greater visibility for Indian brands and exporters, giving them a real chance to connect with global buyers and expand into new markets. Gulfood is a key global platform, and its diversity reflects the dynamic food trade ecosystem of the region.
At Al Maya Group, we are one of the leading importers of Indian FMCG and food products in the UAE, and we remain fully committed to growing this engagement. With CEPA further strengthening bilateral trade, we are already witnessing new opportunities unfold. I’m confident that India and the UAE will continue building one of the region’s most successful and strategic trade partnerships.”
Adding flavour to the experience, the Indian Pavilion includes a Culinary Zone with live cooking demonstrations by a celebrated Indian chef. This zone showcases regional Indian dishes, traditional ingredients, and the versatility of Indian food — enhancing global buyer interest and consumer curiosity.
The Pulses, Grains and Cereals section is another major attraction, displaying India’s wide array of staple foods with a focus on sustainability, traceability, and quality assurance for global markets. Meanwhile, Indian agri and food institutions such as the Spices Board, Tea Board, NAFED, and National Turmeric Board are actively promoting compliance, innovation, and export certification support.
India’s presence spans two key Gulfood venues — Dubai Expo City and Dubai World Trade Centre — with a high-profile footprint at the World Food Hall, Pulses Hall, Beverage Hall, and Gulfood Green. The participation aligns with India–UAE CEPA, which has expanded bilateral trade access and created more opportunities for Indian food exporters.
Beyond the expo, India’s branding is visible across Dubai, including metro stations, gas stations, and buses — reinforcing India’s position as a trusted, innovation-driven agri-food partner on the world stage.
With a vibrant display of tradition, innovation and export capability, India’s presence at Gulfood 2026 is not just a trade showcase — it’s a bold statement of its growing influence in shaping the future of food globally.
