Emerging Trends in the India MICE Industry (2025–2026)
What are the most significant emerging trends you’re observing in your country’s MICE industry for 2025–2026, and what factors are driving these changes?
India’s MICE industry is undergoing a major structural shift, with exhibitions emerging as a key driver of growth in the 2025–2026 period. A surge in digital adoption is reshaping event formats, powered by India’s youthful demographic and enhanced digital infrastructure. Organisers are integrating advanced technologies to expand reach and engagement, using AI for lead generation, matchmaking, and ROI tracking. There is also a significant move beyond metro cities, with exhibitions increasingly being held in secondary and tertiary cities due to improved infrastructure, connectivity, and hospitality services.
Over the past decade, India has operationalised 157 airports, launched 517 new air routes, and expanded its national highways to nearly 145,000 km, greatly enhancing accessibility. Sector-specific exhibitions in renewable energy, agri-tech, pharmaceuticals, defence, and textiles are on the rise, fuelled by the government’s “Make in India” initiative and industrial growth. Additionally, immersive experiences using AR/VR, live demonstrations, and interactive setups are becoming standard, delivering deeper engagement and value for both exhibitors and attendees.
How is your market responding to the rising demand for sustainable and responsible business events?
India’s MICE sector, particularly within exhibitions, is making steady progress toward integrating ESG principles into event planning. Leading venues such as Yashobhoomi in New Delhi, the Jio World Convention Centre in Mumbai, India Expo Centre in Greater Noida, and BIEC in Bengaluru are embracing sustainable infrastructure through green building certifications. Organisers are increasingly adopting eco-conscious practices, including waste segregation, reusable materials, energy-efficient lighting, and low-carbon event models.
While the adoption of sustainable practices is still evolving, rising environmental awareness among Indian corporates, combined with ESG mandates from global exhibitors and sponsors, is accelerating the shift. As a result, features like paperless check-ins, carbon offsetting, eco-certified venues, and locally sourced services are becoming more prevalent across India’s exhibitions and conferences.
What role are government bodies or industry associations playing in supporting the recovery and growth of the MICE sector through 2025–2026?
The Indian government and key industry associations are taking proactive, collaborative steps to revitalise the country’s MICE sector. The Ministry of Tourism has established a dedicated MICE division and formed the National MICE Board to drive destination marketing, build capacity, and attract international events.
To strengthen regional efforts, it is working with state governments to establish City MICE Bureaus, enhancing the attendee experience through local ecosystem support. Industry bodies like the Indian Exhibition Industry Association (IEIA) and India Convention Promotion Bureau are also playing vital roles by championing professional development, sustainability, women leadership, and international promotion of India as a premier MICE destination. The legacy of India’s G20 Presidency in 2023 has further boosted the sector by upgrading infrastructure in over 60 cities and raising India’s global profile as an emerging MICE hub.
How is your country positioning itself to attract more international MICE events in 2025–2026, and what advantages or challenges do you anticipate?
India is strategically positioning itself as a value-driven, culturally immersive, and infrastructure-ready destination for international MICE events, particularly exhibitions. The country boasts world-class MICE infrastructure across more than 65 cities, supported by streamlined visa processes, including e-visas for business visitors issued within 24 to 48 hours.
India’s competitive advantage also lies in its affordability, offering lower costs for venue rentals, accommodation, and manpower compared to many global markets. Moreover, India’s rich cultural heritage, diverse cuisine, wildlife, and adventure tourism provide compelling post-event experiences that add significant value for international delegates.
Looking ahead, which sectors or audience segments (e.g., medical congresses, tech conferences, incentive travel) are expected to drive the most growth in your country’s MICE industry?
India’s exhibition-focused MICE sector is experiencing strong momentum, with several key industries expected to drive significant growth in 2025–2026. The pharmaceutical and healthcare sector continues to expand, positioning India as a global hub for trade exhibitions and B2B expos. Technology and startup-driven events are also on the rise, fuelled by the country’s booming digital economy and interest in AI, fintech, and electronics. Green and renewable energy expos are gaining traction in line with the national sustainability agenda.
Meanwhile, the textiles and manufacturing sectors are benefitting from the ‘Make in India’ initiative and Production- Linked Incentive (PLI) schemes, leading to the expansion of related exhibitions. Lastly, the agritech and food processing segments are drawing increasing attention through expos focused on food security, innovation, and rural development, appealing to both domestic and international audiences.
Last modified: September 14, 2025
