In a proud moment for Indian agriculture and trade, India has stepped onto the global stage not just as a participant but as a Partner Country at Gulfood 2026 in Dubai. For over three decades, Gulfood has been the world’s most influential food and beverage sourcing platform. Yet, in its 31-year history, India had never held this coveted role until now. This milestone marks a shift in perception. India is no longer seen merely as a supplier of raw commodities; it is emerging as a reliable, diverse, and value-driven food partner for the world.

Gulfood: Where the World Comes to Source Food

Held annually in Dubai, Gulfood is the largest and most impactful food and beverage trade exhibition globally. Buyers, policymakers, investors, and industry leaders from more than 190 countries converge here to shape the future of global food trade. Gulfood 2026 is historic in another way as well: it is being hosted at two venues for the first time, the Dubai World Trade Centre and the Dubai Exhibition Centre at Expo City Dubai. The scale reflects the growing complexity of global food supply chains, and India’s Partner Country status places it right at the centre of this conversation.

A Pavilion That Tells India’s Food Story

India’s presence at Gulfood 2026 is being led by the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry. The Indian Pavilion, spread across an impressive 1,434 square metres, is not just a display space—it is a statement of intent. Inaugurated by Avinash Joshi, Secretary, Ministry of Food Processing Industries, in the presence of Deepak Mittal, India’s Ambassador to the UAE, the pavilion reflects India’s agricultural depth, processing capabilities, and export readiness. From farm to fork, the display showcases how India is aligning tradition with modern global standards.

161 Exhibitors, One Nation, Many Voices

What makes India’s participation truly special is its inclusivity. The pavilion brings together 161 exhibitors from 25 Indian states and regions, representing the full spectrum of the agri-food ecosystem. Exporters stand alongside Farmer Producer Organizations, cooperatives share space with startups, and state government agencies interact directly with global buyers. From fresh fruits and vegetables to processed foods, cereals, spices, and value-added products, the diversity mirrors India itself—vast, varied, and vibrant. For many small producers and young entrepreneurs, Gulfood 2026 is more than an exhibition. It is their first gateway to international markets, long-term contracts, and global supply chains.

Food Processing: The Next Big Growth Engine

India’s Gulfood presence is not limited to exports alone. A high-level delegation from the Ministry of Food Processing Industries, working closely with Invest India, is actively promoting investment opportunities in food processing, cold chains, logistics, and allied agri-infrastructure. The message is clear: India wants to move up the value chain. By strengthening food processing, the country aims to reduce post-harvest losses, improve supply efficiency, and most importantly, increase farmer incomes. Global investors at Gulfood are being invited to be part of this transformation.

India–UAE Ties: Food as a Strategic Bridge

India’s Partner Country status also reflects the deepening India–UAE economic relationship. The UAE is a key trade partner and a critical hub for re-exporting food products to the Middle East, Africa, and Europe. With food security becoming a global priority, India’s ability to supply safe, diverse, and affordable food makes it a natural partner for the Gulf region. Gulfood 2026 strengthens this bond, positioning India as a long-term contributor to regional and global food resilience.

A Signal to the World

India’s debut as a Partner Country at Gulfood 2026 is more than ceremonial. It signals confidence—both India’s confidence in its agri-food capabilities and the world’s confidence in India as a food partner. As global supply chains are reimagined and food security takes centre stage, India’s moment at Gulfood marks a turning point. From fields across its states to exhibition halls in Dubai, India is telling the world one clear message: it is ready to feed the future—responsibly, reliably, and at scale.