India’s presence at Gulfood 2026 is set to be its most ambitious yet, with the country earning Partner Nation status and ramping up to 161 exhibitors. The Ministry of Commerce and Industry revealed details of this scale-up, which includes a pavilion twice as large as last year’s, signaling robust growth in agri-food exports.
This surge mirrors rising global appetite for Indian produce, driven by enhanced participation from diverse stakeholders. APEDA will curate an impressive array of offerings: key agricultural commodities, Geographical Indication products, organics, and innovative value-added items.
Innovation takes center stage at the Bharati Pavilion, hosting eight elite startups in Dubai’s startup hub. Handpicked from a competitive pool, these firms present cutting-edge technologies and products primed for international success, embodying APEDA’s forward-thinking export strategy.
Visitors can savor India’s gastronomic diversity in a special live cooking area, where expert chefs demonstrate traditional recipes. This sensory showcase highlights the adaptability of Indian ingredients, sparking buyer interest and fostering long-term trade partnerships.
To maximize reach, APEDA has launched high-visibility campaigns across Dubai’s key spots, from transit hubs to urban billboards. The overarching goal? Strengthen networks, amplify brand equity, showcase diversity, and solidify India’s role as a sustainable force in global food trade.