IITF 2026: India gears up for major trade show with global participation

The 45th edition of the India International Trade Fair (IITF) will be held from November 14-27, with over 3,500 exhibitors and 11 countries, including China, Iran, Turkey and Bangladesh, set to participate this year.

The IITF 2026 is being organised under the theme ‘Vikas aur Virasat’. November 14-18 will be business days for trade visitors and B2B networking events, whereas November 19-27 will be open to general public, families and cultural visitors.

The ticket price for adults on general days (November 19-27) has been increased to Rs 100 from Rs 80 last year, the fair’s organiser India Trade Promotion Organisation (ITPO) shared. Entry for senior citizens and children up to 5 years will be free.

ITPO Chairman Jawed Ashraf told PTI the ticket price has been increased “marginally” for the first time “after five years”.

Union Commerce & Industry Minister Piyush Goyal will inaugurate the fair on November 13, at a ceremony featuring an Odissi performance by Padma Shri awardee Guru Madhavi Mudgal and her group.

Addressing a press conference, the ITPO Chairman shared that the number of footfalls is expected to surpass the previous edition, which recorded 18 lakh visitors.

He stressed that the ITPO has made efforts to ensure hygienic food is available for visitors, who can choose from 90 outlets serving diverse Indian and international cuisines.

Ashraf highlighted that 11 countries are participating in the fair this year with an enlarged presence as compared to the previous edition.

“With over 3,500 exhibitors, it is clearly the largest exhibition in India, and after welcoming nearly 18 lakh visitors last year, we expect to exceed that number this time.

“This year, we have placed a particular focus on the youth. The Hall of Inspiration will showcase about 600 startups from deep tech to agri-tech, drones, space, healthcare, and edtech, and we hope it will inspire the youth of India. The ODOP Pavilion will bring district-level craft, cuisine, and culture to a national platform. Making the visitor experience smooth is a priority for us, and we welcome everyone to Bharat Mandapam,” the ITPO Chairman stated.

International participation will include 11 countries, with pavilions featuring exhibitors from Thailand, Iran, Ghana, Nepal, Afghanistan, the UAE, Turkey, China, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh, providing opportunities for international business engagement and trade linkages.

This year, the partner states include Bihar, Maharashtra, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh, whereas Assam, Delhi, Jharkhand and West Bengal are the focus states.

(PTI)