Gulfood 2025, one of the world’s largest food and beverage trade exhibitions, has commenced at the Dubai World Trade Centre, featuring over 5,500 exhibitors from 129 countries. Spanning 24 halls and 1.3 million square feet, the event highlights more than one million products, reinforcing Dubai’s role as a global food trade hub.
India has a significant presence at the event, with 370 companies participating, including 122 under six key industry associations and 248 independent exhibitors. Leading organizations such as the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA), the Cashew Export Promotion Council of India, Assocham, the Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO), and the Indian Oilseeds & Produce Export Promotion Council (IOPEPC) are spearheading India’s representation.
Chirag Paswan, India’s Minister for Food Processing Industries, inaugurated the Indian Pavilion in the presence of Consul General Satish Kumar Sivan and other dignitaries. Speaking at the event, Paswan emphasized India’s commitment to global partnerships in food processing.
“Under the visionary leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India is fostering global collaborations in the food processing sector, encouraging investments, and integrating digital technologies to develop a future-ready food ecosystem,” he stated during his keynote address at the Leadership Summit in Dubai.
He further added, “India’s presence at Gulfood 2025 is a testament to our commitment to becoming a global leader in food processing and agri-exports. This event will showcase India’s strengths in food processing and value addition while fostering new collaborations and innovative food solutions. Our participation will help expand India’s footprint in new markets and establish sustainable supply chains that benefit both producers and consumers worldwide.”
Highlighting India’s growing role in the global food industry, Consul General Satish Kumar Sivan remarked, “India’s strengthened trade ties are reflected in its expanding role in global food supply chains. The country’s leadership in pulses, cereals, and grains is a testament to its ability to meet rising global demand for sustainable and nutritious food.”
This year, India’s participation at Gulfood 2025 emphasizes sustainability, technology-driven supply chains, and product diversification. With the Gulf region being a key market, the Indian Consulate in Dubai has actively supported Indian businesses by facilitating B2B meetings, networking events, and trade delegations.
The Indian Mission, in collaboration with NAFED, APEDA, and FIEO, provides exhibitors with branding support, market insights, regulatory guidance, and access to buyers and distributors. Additionally, interactive knowledge sessions with business delegations, including the Mahratta Chamber of Commerce and IGTD Exim Chamber of Commerce, aim to enhance market understanding for Indian producers.
The demand for specific Indian products in the Gulf region continues to grow, driven by the large Indian diaspora and strong bilateral trade relations. Spices, rice, ready-to-eat meals, and Ayurvedic products remain highly sought after, alongside textiles, jewelry, and emerging sectors like electronics and IT.
The India-UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) has further boosted trade flows, with e-commerce platforms such as Amazon UAE and Noon expanding market access for Indian brands.
In 2023, India exported $1.61 billion worth of processed food and agricultural products to the UAE, underscoring the strong trade relationship between the two nations. With India’s dynamic presence at Gulfood 2025, the country is poised to further strengthen its footprint in the global food industry.
