India Makes Historic Debut as Partner Country at Gulfood 2026 in Dubai

India has created a major milestone in global agri-trade by participating as a Partner Country at Gulfood 2026 in Dubai, for the first time in the event’s 31-year history. The move highlights India’s rising presence in the global food and beverage market and its deepening economic engagement with the Gulf region.

Why in News?

India is participating as a Partner Country at Gulfood 2026, the world’s largest annual food and beverage sourcing event, marking its first-ever partner role since the exhibition began over three decades ago.

India’s Participation at Gulfood 2026

India’s participation is being led by Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.

Gulfood 2026 is being held at two venues for the first time,

• Dubai World Trade Centre
• Dubai Exhibition Centre, Expo City Dubai
• The Indian Pavilion, spread across 1,434 square metres, reflects the country’s agri-diversity and export readiness.
• The pavilion was inaugurated by Avinash Joshi, Secretary, Ministry of Food Processing Industries, in the presence of Deepak Mittal, India’s Ambassador to the UAE.

This marks a strong institutional push to position India as a reliable global food supplier.

Wide Representation from Indian States and Sectors

The Indian pavilion features a broad and inclusive representation of India’s agri-food ecosystem.

• 161 exhibitors from 25 Indian states and regions are participating.
• Participants include exporters, Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), cooperatives, startups, state government agencies, and national institutions.
• The diversity on display reflects India’s strength across fresh produce, processed foods, cereals, spices, and value-added products.
• This participation also provides small producers and startups access to international buyers and supply chains.

Role of FIEO and Focus on Key Exports

The Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO) is also part of Gulfood 2026.

• FIEO has 11 exhibitors at the event.
• The focus is mainly on basmati rice and other cereal grains, key export items from India.
• Indian companies are using the platform to explore long-term contracts, brand visibility, and new markets in West Asia, Africa, and Europe.
• This strengthens India’s position as a major food-exporting nation.

Boost to Food Processing and Investments

A high-level delegation led by the Ministry of Food Processing Industries is visiting Gulfood 2026.

The ministry is working jointly with Invest India to promote investments in,

• Food processing
• Cold chains
• Logistics
• Allied agri-infrastructure
• The focus is on attracting global investors to India’s rapidly expanding food processing sector.

This aligns with India’s goal of reducing wastage and increasing farmer incomes.

Key Summary at a Glance

Question

Q. Which organization is leading India’s participation at Gulfood 2026?

A) FIEO
B) Invest India
C) APEDA
D) NITI Aayog