New Delhi, Jan 23 (NationPress) India's involvement in the ‘Gulfood 2026’ event is strategically aligned with the emerging opportunities arising from the India–UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). This partnership has bolstered bilateral trade relations and created improved market access for Indian agricultural and food products within the Gulf region, according to an official announcement made on Friday.

The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) will be present at ‘Gulfood 2026’.

Designated as the Partner Country at the event scheduled from January 26-30, India emphasizes its role as a dependable sourcing hub and a crucial player in global food security and resilient supply chains.

As reported by the Commerce Ministry, exhibitors from 25 states and regions are taking part, showcasing India’s extensive agricultural and regional diversity.

This participation aims to highlight region-specific agricultural products, GI-tagged items, organic produce, and value-added food offerings, illustrating India's growing involvement in international agri-trade.

The announcement indicated that the Indian Pavilion has expanded in size compared to the previous year, reflecting the increasing reach of Indian agri-food exports and the rising global demand for Indian goods, alongside enhanced involvement from exporters, institutions, and startups.

Featuring 161 exhibitors across various categories, the pavilion showcases processed foods, fresh and frozen products, pulses, grains, cereals, beverages, value-added food products, and agri-export startups.

The Indian Pavilion unites exporters, Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs), cooperatives, startups, state government agencies, and national institutions, providing a holistic perspective of India’s agri-food ecosystem and export readiness, as stated in the announcement.

Situated in the Startup Zone at the Dubai World Trade Centre, the ‘BHARATI Pavilion’ features eight promising Indian startups, selected from over 100 applicants through a national-level process.

These startups are presenting innovative products, technology-driven solutions, and export-enabling offerings that align with APEDA’s Farm to Foreign vision.

While the Dubai Expo City hosts the World Food Hall, Pulses, Grains and Cereals Hall, and Gulfood Green, which focus on sustainability, innovation, and future food systems, the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) accommodates the Beverage Hall and the Startup Hall, including the BHARATI Pavilion.