IHE 2024 Kicks Off: Showcasing India's Booming Hospitality Industry
India International Hospitality Expo 2024 Begins with A Grand Celebration of Hospitality Excellence
The 7th edition of the India International Hospitality Expo (IHE 2024) was inaugurated today at the India Expo Centre & Mart by Union Minister for Tourism & Culture, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat. In his keynote address, Shekhawat expressed pride in being part of IHE 2024, which has significantly advanced India's hospitality industry over the past six years. He emphasised that IHE supports the Indian hospitality sector and showcases its potential on the global stage. The expo serves as a hub for industry professionals to network, share ideas, and achieve international success.
Shekhawat highlighted the potential of tourism in making India the third-largest economy, noting that the sector is a significant employment generator. He also mentioned that India could become a perennial destination, with MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) playing a crucial role. He lauded the government's commitment to excelling in tourism and hospitality, citing the recent organisation of the World Heritage Committee meeting attended by representatives from 170 countries.
The event was attended by notable dignitaries, including the Ambassador of Myanmar, H.E. Moe Kyaw Aung; Chief Trade Counsellor of the Embassy of Vietnam, Bui Trung Thuong; Director Aakar Exhibition Premal Mehta; Resident Commissioner, Government of Himachal Pradesh, Meera Mohanty; Tops India Director Bharat Sawnami; Managing Director, Nurnberg Messe, Sonia Prashar; Chairman of India Expo Centre & Mart, Rakesh Kumar; and Show President of IHE, Hari Dadoo.
Rakesh Kumar announced Vietnam as a Partner Country, with support from Bui Trung Thuong. Vietnamese exhibitors will showcase their products, and chefs will conduct masterclasses on Vietnamese cuisine. Himachal Pradesh, as the 'Focus State,' will showcase its potential as an exhibitor.
IHE 2024, running from August 3 to 6, features over 1,000 exhibitors and more than 20,000 B2B buyers, including representatives from luxury hotels, resorts, homestays, restaurants, cloud kitchens, and the F&B sector. The expo is co-located with major events like Catering Asia, Tent Décor Asia, BIOFACH, and AYURYOG EXPO, providing a comprehensive platform for the hospitality sector.
The four-day event also features culinary competitions, including the Pastry Queen India Competition, Master Bakers Challenge India 2024, and India Pizza League Championship, showcasing the industry's diverse talents and innovations.