World food day is celebrated around the world on the 16th of October. To showcase the immense opportunities offered by Indian food processing sector, the Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MOFPI), Government of India is organizing lndia’s largest international event in food processing and allied sectors “World Food India 2017” in New Delhi from 03-05 November, 2017.

It will provide global businesses a platform to explore Indian market across the value chain in food processing and food retail. “India is a producer and a consumer. It is great that we are taking initiatives to get investors and also raise awareness around significant issues like food wastage etc,” says Shoubhik Pal who works a hospitality chain.

India is the fastest growing economy and one of the most attractive investment destinations in the world. India attracted FDl inflows in excess of US$ 40 Billion 2015-16. The recent initiatives of the Government for creating a conducive business environment in the food sector such as simplification of processes, regulatory reforms, 100% FDI in food manufacturing, 100% FDI in retail marketing including e-commerce of food products produced and/or manufactured in India, launching 101 new cold chains, creation of 42 Mega Food Parks etc., have created an environment for promotion of food processing sector.

The Government emphasis on a cashless economy through digitisation and roll out of Goods & Services Tax (GST) will further enable the sector gain traction. With a population base of 1.25 billion, growing middle class with rising disposable income, increased spending on food and consumer goods and improved infrastructure, the Indian food retail market is growing at a fast pace and is set to reach US$ 482 billion by 2020 making it a Global leader in Food Retail and Food Supply. “ World food day was established in November 1979 by the member countries of the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO).

It reminds us that we must take action towards the eradication of hunger. The member countries get together every October 16th and discuss how to eradicate hunger,” says Chandreyee Saha, Food blogger. Leading players in the food sector from all over the globe are expected to participate in this event which will highlight available infrastructure, incentives, benefits offered by them and opportunities available for potential investors across the entire food processing and food retail value chain.

There is a great potential between France and India to work together in the field of food processing. India is the second largest producer of food in the world and one of the largest producers of Milk, Cereals, Fruits & Vegetables; shortage of processing capacity creates ample opportunities for collaboration in this sector. French agrofood and agrofood equipment companies are invited to participate in this event.

Confederation of Indian Industry (CIl) is the event partner and KPMG is the Knowledge Partner for the World Food India 2017. Popular chef Sanjeev Kapoor on Wednesday was named brand ambassador for Food Street, a curated food experience zone at the forthcoming World Food India event.

World Food India is a three-day mega international event covering the entire food processing value chain.