The 43rd edition of the India International Trade Fair (IITF) was inaugurated by Union Minister of Commerce & Industry, Shri Piyush Goyal, at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi on November 14, 2024. Organized by the India Trade Promotion Organization (ITPO), this flagship event highlights India’s vibrant trade, culture, and innovation, while advancing the nation’s vision of becoming a self-reliant and prosperous Viksit Bharat by 2047. The event spans a gross area of 1,07,000 square meters, featuring over 3,500 exhibitors from India and abroad. With an expected daily footfall of nearly one lakh visitors, it stands as one of South Asia’s largest trade fairs.
This year’s theme, “Viksit Bharat @2047,” reflects the country’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, inclusivity, and good governance. The fair provides a platform to showcase India’s industrial strength and export potential while fostering meaningful dialogue among stakeholders to achieve long-term economic and social goals. Bihar and Uttar Pradesh are participating as Partner States, while Jharkhand has been designated the Focus State. In total, 33 States and Union Territories, 49 Central Ministries, and several prominent Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) and Public Sector Banks (PSBs) are participating. Additionally, international exhibitors from countries such as China, South Korea, Türkiye, Egypt, and Sweden enhance the event’s global appeal.
During his inaugural address, Shri Piyush Goyal announced plans to expand ITPO into a world-class agency and extend MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) infrastructure to cities like Bangalore, Mumbai, Chennai, Lucknow, Varanasi, and Noida. Emphasizing the importance of making exhibitions in India a one-stop shop for global buyers and sellers, he highlighted the need for increased international participation and digital innovations. The Minister also proposed organizing virtual fairs for sectors where physical demonstrations are unnecessary and stressed the significance of incorporating innovations like AI, green technologies, and cybersecurity into future trade fairs.
Shri Goyal emphasized the role of digital payments in trade fairs and announced plans for kiosks to streamline transactions. He also highlighted the need for revenue-sharing models to benefit industries leveraging IITF as a market platform. Looking ahead, he envisioned global fairs hosted by India to attract foreign buyers and boost exports, thereby strengthening India’s global trade ties.
IITF 2024 offers visitors a seamless experience through various entry points at Bharat Mandapam, detailed navigation via the Bharat Mandapam mobile app, and multiple ticketing options, including metro stations and online platforms. Business days are scheduled from November 14 to 18, followed by general visitor days from November 19 to 27. Entry remains free for senior citizens and Divyangjan with valid identification.
The fair underscores India’s growing role as a global trade hub, fostering business-to-business (B2B) and business-to-consumer (B2C) engagements. It also demonstrates the nation’s ability to integrate culture, technology, and trade, providing a platform for startups and established enterprises alike. With the participation of renowned private companies like Titan, Jindal Steel & Power, Relaxo, and Woodland, along with international exhibitors, IITF 2024 reaffirms India’s industrial and entrepreneurial capabilities.
Through its dynamic mix of trade, culture, and innovation, IITF 2024 advances India’s goals of achieving sustainability, economic growth, and a resilient future. It reflects the nation’s commitment to becoming a global leader in trade and industry, aligning with the broader vision of a developed India by 2047.
For more information, visit the official website at India Trade Fair.
