India Chem 2026: Mumbai to Host Global Chemicals Powerhouse Event
JP Nadda to inaugurate India Chem 2026 in Mumbai, showcasing India's goal to become a $1 trillion chemicals hub by 2040.
The global chemicals and petrochemicals landscape is set to converge in Mumbai for the 14th edition of India Chem 2026. Scheduled to take place from October 22 to 24 at the Bombay Exhibition Centre, NESCO, this flagship biennial event is organized by the Department of Chemicals and Petrochemicals, Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilisers, in collaboration with the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI).
The event will be officially inaugurated by Union Minister for Chemicals and Fertilisers & Health and Family Welfare, JP Nadda. Joining him will be Union Minister of State Shrimati Anupriya Patel, alongside the Chief Ministers of Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, and Odisha, and various senior government officials.
Advantage Bharat: The Vision for a Global Hub
Under the theme “Advantage Bharat: An Emerging Global Chemicals Hub,” the 14th edition aims to position India as a premier destination for global manufacturing and sourcing. The event will serve as a high-level platform where policymakers, global industry captains, investors, technology providers, and researchers can explore trade and collaboration opportunities.
India currently holds a strong position in the global market, ranking as the sixth-largest producer of chemicals worldwide and the fourth-largest in Asia. The growth trajectory for the sector is ambitious, with projections suggesting the Indian chemical industry will reach a valuation of USD 300 billion by 2030 and soar to USD 1 trillion by 2040.
Drivers of Growth
Several factors are propelling India's ascent in the chemicals sector, including:
- Rising domestic and international demand.
- Expanding export opportunities.
- A significant demographic dividend and competitive skilled labor.
- Government-led governance reforms and robust trade policies.
- Development of world-class infrastructure and a strong regulatory framework.
A Global Gathering in Mumbai
India Chem 2026 is expected to be a massive international affair, with participation from over 100 countries. Key regions including the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, the European Union, Latin America, Vietnam, Korea, and ASEAN nations are expected to attend. Notably, Japan will participate as the partner country, a move seen as a strategic step toward strengthening India-Japan economic cooperation.
The scale of the event is highlighted by the following expectations:
- Exhibitors: Over 200 Indian and international companies.
- Visitors: More than 8,000 business professionals from across the globe.
- Leadership: Over 50 top CEOs participating in the Global CEOs Forum.
- Delegations: Buyer groups from the Middle East, CIS countries, South America, West Europe, and Southeast Asia.
Showcasing Regional Strength and Innovation
The event will put a spotlight on Indian states that have established Petroleum, Chemicals and Petrochemicals Investment Regions (PCPIRs) and specialized chemical hubs. States such as Gujarat, Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Maharashtra will showcase their specific capabilities and investment potential.
What will be on display?
The exhibition will provide a comprehensive look at the industry, covering process plant machinery, equipment, and a vast array of products:
The Chemicals Segment: This will feature everything from basic chemicals, dyes, and pigments to more specialized fields such as agrochemicals, fertilizers, pharmaceutical ingredients, water-treatment chemicals, construction chemicals, and green, sustainable chemicals. There will also be a focus on industrial research and innovation.
The Petrochemicals Segment: This section will primarily focus on the latest advancements in polymers and engineering plastics.