43rd IITF: Piyush Goyal Highlights India’s Aspiration to Become a Global MICE Destination

Emphasizing digital transformation in trade fairs, Shri Goyal discussed the Government’s plans to implement digital kiosks across event venues to expedite transactions and improve visitor convenience.

Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Shri Piyush Goyal inaugurated the 43rd edition of the India International Trade Fair (IITF) at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, with a vision for a self-reliant and prosperous India by 2047, captured in the event’s theme, “Viksit Bharat @2047.” In his address, Minister Goyal outlined plans to expand India Trade Promotion Organisation (ITPO) into a world-class agency showcasing the country's diverse industries, supply chains, and innovation to the global market. The government aims to position India as a premier MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) destination, looking to broaden trade promotion facilities in Bangalore, Mumbai, Chennai, Lucknow, Varanasi, and Noida.

Push for Digital Transactions and Revenue-Sharing Models

Emphasizing digital transformation in trade fairs, Shri Goyal discussed the Government’s plans to implement digital kiosks across event venues to expedite transactions and improve visitor convenience. Additionally, he revealed plans to explore revenue-sharing models with industries that exhibit at the IITF, supporting mutual growth and market expansion within India’s thriving consumer and trade sectors. As a step toward enhancing India’s global appeal, he encouraged the ITPO to integrate virtual exhibitions for products that do not rely on physical displays, thus opening up access to international audiences.

Vision of Global Outreach and Innovation in Future Trade Fairs

Shri Goyal expressed hope for future Indian trade fairs to expand globally, promoting Indian goods and services to foreign buyers. The Minister also suggested dedicated pavilions showcasing Indian startups, innovations in digital public infrastructure, green technology, artificial intelligence (AI), and cybersecurity at future fairs, ensuring an emphasis on technological advancement and sustainable practices. According to Shri Goyal, India’s trade events should provide a “one-stop shop” for buyers and sellers around the world, positioning the nation as a leader in international trade exhibitions.

IITF 2024: A Premier Platform Showcasing India’s Economic Potential

Organized by the India Trade Promotion Organisation, IITF 2024 will run from November 14 to 27 and occupies a vast area of 1,07,000 square meters. The fair has attracted over 3,500 exhibitors from India and abroad, showcasing a diverse array of products and services across sectors. The event is expected to draw close to one lakh visitors daily, underscoring its significance as South Asia’s largest trade fair, where both B2B (business-to-business) and B2C (business-to-consumer) engagements will thrive. Bihar and Uttar Pradesh participate as Partner States, while Jharkhand is recognized as the Focus State, underscoring India’s regional diversity in business and culture.

Global Participation and Innovation-Driven Themes

International exhibitors from countries such as China, Egypt, Iran, South Korea, Sweden, Thailand, Türkiye, Tunisia, Lebanon, Kyrgyzstan, and the UAE have joined the event, enhancing its global significance. Visitors can explore a range of pavilions featuring startups, emerging tech, green innovations, and more, with some of India’s major companies—like Titan, Jindal Steel & Power, JSW Steel, Relaxo, Hawkins, and Woodland—also represented.

Tickets and Visitor Experience

IITF 2024 offers business-focused access from November 14 to 18, followed by general visitor access from November 19 to 27. Tickets are available at 55 Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) metro stations, excluding Supreme Court Metro Station, and online via platforms like the Bharat Mandapam Mobile App, DMRC’s Momentum 2.0 app, and ITPO’s official website. Tickets are priced the same as the previous year, with free entry for senior citizens and Divyangjan upon valid identification.

The Bharat Mandapam mobile app provides detailed maps and real-time navigation to guide visitors to stalls and pavilions within the fair. Entry gates for the fair are located at Gates 3 and 5 on Bhairon Road and Gates 6 and 10 on Mathura Road, with daily open hours from 10:00 AM to 7:30 PM.

A Showcase of India’s Vision for 2047

IITF 2024 encapsulates India’s drive toward innovation, sustainability, inclusivity, and good governance, reinforcing its status as an economic powerhouse with a vision for “Viksit Bharat” by 2047. This flagship event offers participants and visitors the opportunity to network, explore business opportunities, and contribute to India’s economic and social goals, underscoring the nation's resilience and growth trajectory in the global arena.