Blitz Bureau
GULFOOD 2025, one of the world’s largest food and beverage trade exhibitions, began at the Dubai World Trade Centre, featuring over 5,500 exhibitors from 129 countries. Spanning 24 halls, 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 organisations 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 emphasised 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 emphasises 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 India-UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) has further boosted trade flows, with ecommerce platforms such as Amazon UAE and Noon expanding market access for Indian brands.
