High-Level Inauguration of Indian Pavilion
The Indian Pavilion was inaugurated at the APEDA Pavilion in Dubai Expo City by Secretary, Ministry of Food Processing Industries, Shri A. P. Das Joshi. The ceremony was attended by Ambassador of India to the UAE, Dr. Deepak Mittal, along with senior officials including APEDA Chairman Shri Abhishek Dev and ITPO Managing Director Dr. Neeraj Kharwal.
A large delegation of Indian exhibitors, government representatives and trade stakeholders participated in the inauguration, highlighting the importance of Gulfood as a global platform for India’s agri-food exports.
Wide Spectrum of Indian Products on Display
India’s showcase at Gulfood 2026 covers a diverse range of agricultural and processed food products. Key highlights include Basmati rice, over ten GI-tagged Indian rice varieties, processed foods, millets, groundnuts, tea, spices, turmeric, organic products, and fresh fruits and vegetables.
The presence across categories such as cereals, beverages, wellness foods, and agri-tech reinforces India’s ability to offer quality, safety and sustainability across the food value chain.
APEDA’s Expansive Participation
APEDA has taken nearly 1,500 square metres of exhibition space across multiple Gulfood pavilions, including Pulses, Cereals and Grains, World Food, Beverages and Gulfood Green. Over 170 exhibitors are participating under APEDA’s umbrella.
These include central government bodies such as the Tea Board, Spices Board and Turmeric Board, as well as organisations like NAFED, NCEL, National Horticultural Board, CAMPCO and several state governments and cooperatives.
GI Rice Dishes Steal the Spotlight
A major attraction at the Indian Pavilion is the APEDA-curated culinary and food tasting zone, led by celebrity chef Harpal Singh Sokhi. The zone showcases dishes prepared using ten GI-tagged Indian rice varieties, celebrating India’s regional diversity and heritage.
Rice varieties such as Kala Namak, Joha, Gobind Bhog, Katarni, Chak Hao Black Rice and Mushqbudji are featured alongside a special Biryani presentation by the All India Rice Exporters Association, drawing significant attention from global buyers.
Startups Shine Under BHARATI Initiative
Eight Indian startups are participating under APEDA’s BHARATI initiative, Bharat’s Hub for Agritech, Resilience, Advancement and Incubation for Export Enablement. These startups are showcasing innovative agri-food and agri-tech solutions aimed at enhancing export competitiveness.
The initiative is supported by industry partners such as LuLu Group and Allanasons, reflecting growing collaboration between startups and established global players.
UAE: Gateway to the Gulf Market
The UAE remains the largest market for APEDA’s scheduled products and a key gateway to the wider Gulf region, which is India’s biggest destination for agricultural exports. The India–UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement has further strengthened bilateral trade.
India’s prominent presence at Gulfood 2026 is expected to deepen trade ties, enhance buyer engagement and open new opportunities for exporters.
Strengthening India’s Global Food Leadership
India’s role as Country Partner at Gulfood 2026 reflects its commitment to delivering high-quality, safe and innovative food products to the world. The unified branding, dedicated conference sessions and enhanced B2B interactions have amplified India’s visibility.
