ANUFOOD India 2023 wraps up, charting a prosperous path for India's food & beverage sector

ANUFOOD India 2023, co-located with ANUTEC - International FoodTec India & PackEx India 2023, recently concluded at the Bombay Exhibition Centre, Mumbai, setting the stage for India's food & beverage industry growth. These events, known for innovation and collaboration, reinforced their commitment to an industry projected to reach nearly USD 504.92 billion by 2027. This year, with 20,777 visitors and over 270 exhibitors, the event spanned an expansive 10,690 square meters, marking a remarkable 14% growth over its previous edition. India's burgeoning food & beverage sector, poised to create jobs and attract foreign investments, highlights the significance of ANUFOOD India.

These expos welcomed esteemed dignitaries, industry leaders, and government officials, emphasizing their role in promoting innovation, collaboration, and exploration within the food & beverage sector. Key dignitaries included Shri. Prahlad Singh Patel, MOS, Ministry of Food Processing Industries, Government of India, Mercy Epao, joint secretary (SME), Ministry of Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises, Government of India, Dr. N. Bhaskar, president, Association of Food Scientists & Technologists India (AFSTI), Dr Raghav Jadli, president, All India Food Processors Association (AIFPA), Oliver Frese, chief operating officer, Koelnmesse and Milind Dixit, managing director, Koelnmesse.

During the event, the dignitaries emphasized Government’s industry upgradation programs like INR 4600 crores for PMKSY and PLI Scheme to advance the food processing industry. They also highlighted the role of MSMEs, programs for female entrepreneurs, sustainability efforts, customized programs, along with India's potential as a global food processing hub, and opportunities for multinational corporations. They imparted knowledge that highlighted the government's dedication to the expansion of the MSME and food & beverage industries.

In his inaugural address, Shri. Prahlad Singh Patel, MOS, Ministry of Food Processing Industries, Government of India emphasized, "Today's exhibition is the representation of 'Atmanirbhar Bharat,' which reflects the distinctive power of our market and the technological innovation that underpins India's development. The Government of India has allocated INR 4600 crores to sustain PMKSY, and recently, the allocation of an additional INR 920 crores to PMKSY, reaffirms its commitment to sector growth and development.”

Mercy Epao, joint secretary (SME), Ministry of Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises, Government of India said “MSMEs play a significant role in the Indian economy, providing over 30% of the GDP, almost 50% of exports, and 45% of industrial output. A 50,000 crore Self-Reliant India Fund has also been formed to aid MSMEs in diversifying. The Ministry of MSME is dedicated to empowering small businesses and assisting them in the fast-paced business environment of India."

Reflecting on the event’s success, Milind Dixit, managing director, Koelnmesse India, said, “We are delighted by the resounding success of ANUFOOD India along with its co-located event ANUTEC - International FoodTec India & PackEx India. Government initiatives and compelling statistics support the strong growth trajectory of India's food & beverage trade & processing industries. By 2024, this industry is expected to produce nine million new employment and bring in USD 4.18 billion in foreign direct investments. The growth of these industries and the promotion of innovation are the top priorities of Koelnmesse Pvt Ltd. We appreciate the contributions of the exhibitors, guests, partners, and together, we will keep bringing about constructive change in the sector.”