MEWA India 2026 brings global nuts and dry fruits industry to New Delhi

India’s nuts and dry fruits sector received a major global platform on January 23 with the inauguration of the third edition of MEWA India 2026, the country’s largest international trade show for nuts, dry fruits and value-added nutrition, being held from January 23 to 25 at Yashobhoomi, Dwarka.

Organised by the Nuts & Dry Fruits Council (India), MEWA India 2026 is hosting over 10,000 business visitors, featuring more than 300 exhibitors and participation from over 30 countries, bringing together stakeholders from across the global nuts and dry fruits value chain.

The event follows the MEWA Premier League, held on January 22, a networking initiative that brought together industry leaders, trade participants and stakeholders to foster engagement and collaboration ahead of the exhibition.

According to NDFC(I), exhibitors from the United States, South America, the Middle East, Europe, Central Asia and Australia are showcasing a wide range of products and innovations, including nuts, dry fruits, berries, value-added nutrition products, processing and packaging machinery, logistics services and technology solutions. The participation of the International Nut & Dried Fruit Council (INC) is strengthening the event’s global outreach.

Speaking on the occasion, Gunjan Vijay Jain, President, NDFC(I), said, “MEWA India has emerged as a key platform connecting India with the global nuts and dry fruits ecosystem. The 2026 edition further strengthens trade linkages while also focusing on nutrition, health awareness and the sustainable growth of the sector.”

MEWA India 2026 builds on the success of previous editions held in New Delhi and Mumbai, which helped strengthen domestic and international linkages across the value chain. As part of its broader mandate, NDFC(I) has also been engaged in policy advocacy to promote consumption and accessibility of nuts and dry fruits, including supporting the reduction of GST from 12 per cent to 5 per cent.

Highlighting the sustainability focus, Col. Nitin Sehgal, VSM (Veteran), CEO, NDFC(I), said the Council has been working closely with grower groups, farmer producer organisations (FPOs) and state-level institutions to improve pre- and post-harvest practices and market access. “MEWA India 2026 provides a platform where domestic stakeholders can engage with global markets, technology providers and quality experts,” he said.

Women’s participation is a key focus area at the event. Organisers said the nuts and dry fruits sector is among India’s most women-intensive food processing segments, particularly in grading, sorting, packaging and value addition. Dedicated platforms for women-led enterprises, skill development initiatives and leadership discussions will be held during the exhibition.

Deepak Agarwal, Secretary, NDFC(I), said India is increasingly emerging not only as a major consumer market but also as a growing hub for processing, packaging, value addition and global trade in nuts and dry fruits. “MEWA India 2026 brings the entire ecosystem together—from origin boards to retailers and logistics players—to support this transition,” he said.

The event will feature curated buyer–seller meetings, retail connect programmes, industry dialogues and knowledge sessions focusing on quality standards, logistics and global trade readiness. Organisers said MEWA India 2026 is expected to play an important role in strengthening India’s position in the global nutrition and healthy snacking economy.