SDG 2: Zero Hunger | SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth | SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production
Ministry of Commerce and Industry | Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA)
For the first time, India has been designated as the Partner Country for Gulfood 2026, to be held in Dubai from January 26 to 30. This flagship participation, led by APEDA, marks a significant scale-up with the Indian Pavilion doubling in size compared to the previous edition. The showcase spans 1,434 square metres and features 161 exhibitors, including exporters, cooperatives, and national institutions like the Spices Board, Tea Board, and Turmeric Board.
Focus on Innovation and Startup Ecosystem
A central highlight of India’s presence is the BHARATI Pavilion, specifically designed to promote export-ready agri-food and agri-tech startups.
Startup Accelerator: Eight high-potential startups, selected through the national BHARATI Startup Challenge, are showcasing technology-driven solutions aligned with the “Farm to Foreign” vision.
Diverse Agri-Portfolio: The exhibition covers a wide spectrum, including processed foods, GI-tagged products, organic produce, pulses, and value-added beverages.
Regional Representation: Exhibitors from 25 States and regions are participating, highlighting the vast agricultural and regional diversity of India.
Strategic Market Integration and Global Branding
The participation is strategically aligned with the India–UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), which has accelerated trade facilitation and market access.
High-Impact Branding: India’s Partner Country status is being amplified through extensive branding across Dubai, including metro stations, bus wraps, and fuel stations to enhance global brand recall.
Culinary Diplomacy: The pavilion features a dedicated culinary demonstration area where noted chefs showcase the versatility of Indian ingredients to international buyers.
Sustainability Focus: India is positioning itself as a reliable contributor to global food security and resilient supply chains through displays emphasizing quality, traceability, and compliance with international standards.
Policy Relevance
India’s prominent role at Gulfood 2026 serves as a strategic lever for expanding its footprint in the global agri-export market.
CEPA Utilization: The expanded participation directly leverages the India-UAE CEPA to deepen market integration and boost bilateral trade in the Gulf region.
Value-Added Exports: Moving from bulk commodities to value-added and processed foods aligns with national goals to increase farmers’ income through higher export realizations.
Startup Enablement: By providing global platforms to agri-tech startups, the government is fostering an innovation-led export ecosystem that addresses global demands for traceability and sustainability.
Global Food Security: Positioning India as a “reliable sourcing hub” reinforces its strategic importance in maintaining resilient global food supply chains.
Relevant Question for Policy Stakeholders: How can APEDA sustain the momentum from Gulfood 2026 to ensure that the “Farm to Foreign” startups successfully convert international leads into long-term, scalable export contracts?
Follow the full news here: India to Present Diverse Agri-Food Ecosystem Through 161 Exhibitors at Gulfood 2026