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.

Shri 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, Shri Paswan emphasized India’s commitment to global partnerships in food processing.

The demand for 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.