The global food industry thrives on networking and partnerships, and there’s no better way to tap into these opportunities than by attending the top food trade expos of 2025. Whether you are a food producer, exporter, distributor, or retailer, these events offer invaluable business connections, industry insights, and global exposure. Below, we highlight some of the most important food trade shows taking place in 2025, along with key dates, locations, and what makes them essential for industry professionals.

As always, the BestFoodImporters platform is the ideal tool to make sure that you get the most value out of your expo participation, allowing you to research the food importers that match your profile and invite them to visit your stand.

Gulfood 2025 – Dubai, UAE

Date: February 17-21, 2025
Location: Dubai World Trade Centre, UAE
Why Attend? One of the largest and most influential food trade shows in the world, Gulfood brings together 100,000+ industry professionals from over 190 countries. It is a hub for food innovation, showcasing thousands of food brands, cutting-edge trends, and global trade opportunities.

Key Highlights:

• Global sourcing: Meet buyers and suppliers from across the world.
• Sustainability & Innovation: Focus on sustainable food solutions and new product launches.

Who Should Attend? Food producers, distributors, importers, retailers, and hospitality professionals looking to expand their international presence.

The 2026 edition which will take place between 26 and 30 January will mark the 30th anniversary of the expo, and a major evolution of the already impressive event. Starting 2026, Gulf Food Dubai will be even bigger as it will open a second location, the Dubai Expo City venue.

Foodex Japan 2025 – Tokyo, Japan

Date: March 11-14, 2025
Location: Tokyo Big Sight, Japan
Why Attend? As Asia’s largest food and beverage exhibition, Foodex Japan attracts over 85,000 visitors from 95+ countries. It is a gateway to the Asian market, with a strong focus on premium, organic, and sustainable food.

Key Highlights:

• Direct Access to Asian Buyers: Strong representation from Japan, China, South Korea, and Southeast Asia.
• Growing Demand for Western Products: Increased interest in European wines, dairy, and gourmet products.
• Sustainability & Health Trends: Featuring new product innovations in functional foods, organic, and eco-friendly packaging.

Who Should Attend? Food and beverage producers who are interested in expanding to the Asian market and connecting with importers and distributors.

IFE The International Food & Drink Event

Date: March 17-19, 2025
Location: London, UK
Why Attend? IFE is the UK’s leading food and drink trade event, bringing together over 25,000 industry professionals and 1,500 exhibitors from across the globe. The event offers a prime opportunity to explore new trends, build partnerships, and expand into the UK market.

Key Highlights:

• Innovative Product Showcases: Discover new and emerging food & drink trends.
• Business Networking: Connect with importers, distributors, and retailers from the UK and beyond.
• Sustainability & Food Tech Focus: Learn about the latest developments in food sustainability and technology.

Who Should Attend? Food and drink producers looking to enter or expand in the UK market, connect with buyers and distributors, and stay ahead of industry trends.

Salón Gourmets 2025 – Madrid, Spain

Date: April 7-10, 2025
Location: Madrid, Spain
Why Attend? Salón Gourmets is Europe’s leading exhibition dedicated to high-end delicatessen products, bringing together producers, distributors, and top-tier buyers in the gourmet food sector. The event is a key destination for those looking to explore premium and artisanal food trends.

Key Highlights:

• Exclusive Product Showcases: Featuring the latest innovations in gourmet foods, wines, and delicacies.
• Live Demonstrations & Tastings: Engage in show cookings, competitions, and tastings by renowned chefs.
• B2B Networking & International Buyers: Connect with importers, distributors, and retailers specializing in high-quality products.

Who Should Attend? Producers of artisanal, gourmet, and premium food products looking to expand their reach into luxury food markets worldwide.

Fancy Food Show 2025 – New York, USA

Date: June 29, July 1 2025
Location: Javits Center, New York, USA
Why Attend? The summer Fancy Food Show is North America’s largest specialty food and beverage event, drawing over 25,000 industry professionals. It is an excellent event for gourmet and specialty food producers to gain exposure in the U.S. market.

Key Highlights:

• U.S. Retail & Distribution Networks: Direct access to top grocery chains, gourmet stores, and wholesalers.
• Specialty & Organic Food Trends: Growing demand for artisanal, organic, and ethnic foods.
• Pitching Opportunities: Chance to present products to leading retailers and buyers.

Who Should Attend? Producers and exporters of specialty, organic, and gourmet food products looking to enter or expand in the U.S. market.

Anuga 2025 – Germany

Date: October 4-8, 2025
Location: Koelnmesse, Cologne, Germany
Why Attend? Anuga is the world’s leading food and beverage trade fair, held every two years. It brings together 170,000+ trade visitors and 7,900+ exhibitors, making it a must-attend for businesses looking to expand their export opportunities.

Key Highlights:

• Themed Pavilions: Covering meat, dairy, organic, fine food, frozen food, and more.
• International Buyer Programs: Direct connections with top food buyers and distributors.
• Retail & E-commerce Focus: Insights into consumer demand and digital retail trends.

Who Should Attend? Food producers, manufacturers, and exporters seeking to expand into European and international markets.

 Natexpo Lyon 2025

Date: 30 November – 2 December, 2025
Location: Lyon, France
Why Attend? Natexpo is one of the leading international trade fair for organic products, bringing together industry pioneers, suppliers, and buyers from across Europe. It serves as a key platform for innovation in the organic sector.

Key Highlights:

• Organic & Sustainable Focus: Showcasing the latest developments in organic food, beverages, and sustainable packaging.
• Innovative Product Launches: Discover new trends in plant-based and eco-conscious food production.
• Networking & Business Development: Connect with key decision-makers in the organic sector.

Who Should Attend? Producers and exporters specializing in organic and sustainable food products looking to enter or expand in European markets.

Whether you’re a seasoned exporter or just entering the global food market, attending these expos can help you stay ahead of the competition and unlock new growth opportunities. As the investment to attend one of these expos can be substantial, make sure you maximize your chances of success by preparing ahead using the BestFoodImporters platform, which will help you identify and invite food importers and distributors at your stand.