India’s food and beverage (F&B) sector is on a rapid growth trajectory, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.8 percent, and is projected to double in size by 2030. The outlook was highlighted during the inauguration of Anuga FoodTec India and Anuga Select India 2025, two major international trade fairs hosted at the Bombay Exhibition Centre in Mumbai.
Organized by Koelnmesse India, the events have brought together global delegates, exhibitors, and stakeholders to map the next phase of South Asia’s food and beverage industry.
Dairy’s Contribution to the F&B Economy
In his address, Seetharaman Raghupathi, Executive Director of the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB), underlined the contribution of dairy to India’s food economy. He stated that dairy accounts for 25 percent of the overall F&B sector. India currently produces one-fourth of the world’s milk, with an annual market value of INR 12 trillion.
The strength of the sector lies in its extensive cooperative network, supported by 17 million farmers across 235,000 villages. Women play a substantial role, making up 35 percent of this workforce. Raghupathi explained that dairy cooperatives maintain an equitable distribution model, ensuring that 75 percent of the consumer rupee flows back to producers. This system channels approximately INR 2.1 billion into the rural economy on a daily basis, creating consistent livelihood opportunities and supporting rural households.
“India’s food and beverage sector is growing rapidly, backed by 180 million hectares of arable land, food processing valued at ₹75 trillion, and food expenditure making up over 40% of consumer spend. Dairy contributes 25% of this sector, with India producing one-fourth of the world’s milk, worth INR 12 trillion. With 17 million farmers across 235,000 villages, 35% of whom are women, dairy cooperatives return 75% of the consumer rupee, channelling INR 2.1 billion daily into the rural economy. Initiatives like White Revolution 2.0, which aims to establish 75,000 new cooperatives by 2028-29, will further boost this growth.”
Expanding Food Processing and Food Tech Sectors
Raghupathi also highlighted the broader potential of India’s food industry. The country possesses 180 million hectares of arable land, giving it one of the largest agricultural bases in the world. Food processing alone is valued at INR 75 trillion, and household food expenditure represents more than 40 percent of overall consumer spending in the country.
Within this environment, food tech is emerging as a critical growth driver, advancing at 14 percent CAGR and outpacing global industry averages. The equipment segment is also expanding rapidly. India’s food processing equipment market is projected to touch USD 1.5 billion by 2033, while the packaging machinery segment is expected to cross USD 6.6 billion by 2030. These developments are creating a supportive ecosystem for both domestic players and international investors.
A Platform for Global Engagement
Anuga FoodTec India and Anuga Select India 2025 are being staged from August 20 to 22, bringing together a large international presence. The dual expos are expected to attract nearly 60,000 visitors across three days. More than 1,100 exhibitors, spread across 55,000 square meters, are showcasing a wide array of products and services spanning the entire spectrum of the F&B industry.
Delegates and exhibitors from 65 countries have confirmed participation, with international involvement accounting for 30 percent of the event. This scale highlights the growing relevance of India as both a market and a hub for knowledge exchange in the global F&B sector.
The opening ceremony witnessed the presence of several dignitaries, including H.E. Ahmad Al Ahmari, Chargé d’Affaires of the Royal Embassy of Saudi Arabia; H.E. Zozo Binti, Head of Mission of the Democratic Republic of Congo; H.E. Labane Gideon, Consul General of South Africa; H.E. Donnawit Poolsawat, Consul General of Thailand; Bastian Mingers, Vice President, Food Portfolio, Koelnmesse GmbH; and Milind Dixit, Managing Director, India & SAARC, Koelnmesse Pvt Ltd. Their attendance underlined the global stature of the events and the collaborative opportunities being created.
Also read: CVGG-16: IIIT-A Launches New AI Model for Crop Disease Detection
Koelnmesse’s Global Presence
The expos form part of Koelnmesse’s broader portfolio of international trade fairs. The organization is known for hosting established global events such as Anuga, ISM, Anuga FoodTec, and ProSweets Cologne in Germany. Beyond its headquarters in Cologne, Koelnmesse has extended its reach by staging sector specific trade fairs across multiple key markets, including India, Italy, Colombia, Brazil, China, Japan, Thailand, and the United Arab Emirates.
This global network enables the company to adapt events to regional needs while simultaneously creating opportunities for international trade and partnerships. By offering both bespoke local platforms and internationally recognized fairs, Koelnmesse facilitates long term business linkages across diverse markets.
Driving Growth in South Asia’s F&B Industry
The 2025 editions of Anuga FoodTec India and Anuga Select India have been designed to contribute directly to the expansion of South Asia’s food and beverage sector. The events aim to promote innovation, establish global connections, and encourage trade and knowledge sharing between companies and countries. With rising consumer demand, growing investment in food processing infrastructure, and the strong foundation provided by the dairy sector, India is positioned to play a central role in shaping the future of food and beverage industries in the region.
As the expos progress, the combined participation of international delegations, corporate stakeholders, and domestic producers is expected to set the tone for new collaborations, further investment, and sustainable growth in the sector.