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India makes a mark with largest-ever pavilion at Gulfood 2026
As the official country partner, India brings over 600 companies to Dubai, marking the largest national showcase in Gulfood’s history.
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Staff Reporter - Thu, 29, Jan 2026
- 14:54 EST
- 22
Gulfood 2026 / Gulfood
India created a new record at Gulfood 2026 by hosting the largest country pavilion in the history of the global food and beverage exhibition, signalling its expanding footprint in international food trade and agri-exports.
As the official country partner for this year’s edition, India showcased over 600 companies led by the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), across 8,435 square metres.making it the biggest national showcase ever mounted at the event.
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Organizers and Indian officials said the scale of the pavilion reflects the country’s growing role in global food supply chains and its deepening trade engagement with the Middle East.
The participation comes at a time when bilateral trade between India and the UAE has crossed $100 billion, reaching $100.06 billion in 2024–25 following the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA).
APEDA chairman Abhishek Dev said,“The event serves as a global platform for Indian exporters to showcase India’s high-quality produce, value-added products, and world-class capabilities,” he added.
According to him, Gulfood continues to play a key role in driving India’s agricultural exports and that government agencies, state governments and trade associations are working together to strengthen India’s presence in global markets.
India’s pavilion features a wide cross-section of the country’s food ecosystem, including major brands such as Amul, Dabur, Parle Agro and Rasna, along with exporters such as Allana Group, CCL Products and HyFun. A large number of small and medium enterprises and startups are also participating.
Avinash Joshi, Secretary in the Indian Ministry of Food Processing Industries, said the response from Indian companies had been encouraging.
“We are showcasing a wide range of products, from rice and spices to cereals and other staples. I am thrilled to see a strong presence of Indian MSMEs, who are here to explore opportunities and connect with global markets,” he said, also thanking the UAE government for hosting the event.
Industry bodies said the scale of participation is also being driven by strong export performance in segments such as tea and coffee.
Rajesh Kumar, national vice president of the Tea and Coffee Association of India, said coffee exports crossed $1.17 billion between April and October of FY2025–26, while tea exports exceeded $605 million in the same period.
“Through Gulfood 2026, we aim to expand Indian tea and coffee exports, unlock long-term trade partnerships and strengthen India’s role within the evolving global F&B ecosystem,” Kumar said.
Beyond trade, India is also playing a visible role in Gulfood’s conference and thought leadership platforms, including the Future Food 500 forum, which brings together policymakers, founders, investors and industry leaders to discuss innovation, sustainability and food security.
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