The Indian government has announced that it anticipates attracting more than Rs 75,000 crore in investments for the food processing sector during the upcoming second edition of World Food India (WFI). The event is scheduled to be held from November 3 to 5 in New Delhi, with the first edition taking place in 2017. The event was not held in subsequent years due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
High-Profile Inauguration
Minister of State for Food Processing Industries, Prahlad Singh Patel, revealed that the government has invited Prime Minister Narendra Modi to inaugurate World Food India 2023, and the valedictory function will be graced by the President of India.
Investment Opportunities
India’s food processing sector presents numerous investment opportunities, and some companies have already made indicative investment commitments, which will be announced during the event.
International Participation
While the event is expected to draw interest from around the world, notably, China has not been invited for strategic reasons. Approximately 16 countries, 23 state governments, 11 Union ministries, and central bodies are expected to participate. The event will feature around 950 exhibitors and an estimated 75,000 visitors.
Key Partners and Focused Countries
The Netherlands will be the partner country for World Food India 2023, with Japan and Vietnam as the focused countries.
Significant Investment Commitments
During a presentation, it was revealed that several companies, including Britannia, GreenGrahi, Foods and Inns Ltd, St Peter & Paul Sea Food Exports, as well as US-based General Mills, have indicated investments totaling about Rs 642 crore. Additionally, verbal investment commitments have been received from Swiss-based Buhler Group, US-based Mondelez and Coca Cola, and UAE-based Lulu Group.
Aims and Outcomes
The organizers are optimistic that the event will result in over Rs 75,000 crore in investments. Investments expected from the first edition of World Food India were around Rs 75,000 crore, with Rs 23,000 crore materializing, albeit with some delay due to the pandemic. The focus areas of the event will include millets, growth potential, positioning India as a global hub, creating an efficient ecosystem, and sustainable development.
Unique Culinary Endeavor
One of the highlights of the event will be an attempt to set a Guinness Record with the creation of the world’s longest ‘Millet dosa,’ measuring over 100 feet. The endeavor will involve the participation of 60 to 80 chefs.
