Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat Launches Major International Hospitality Expo

Union Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat inaugurated a major hospitality expo featuring over 1,000 exhibitors on Saturday. The 7th edition of the India International Hospitality Expo (IHE) 2024 is being held from August 3-6 at the India Expo Centre & Mart in Greater Noida.

Representative image

With more than 20,000 B2B buyers, including luxury hotels, resorts, homestays, restaurants, cloud kitchens, and the food and beverage sector, IHE 2024 aims to set new industry standards. The Tourism Ministry highlighted this in a statement.

Comprehensive Platform for Hospitality Sector

This year's expo is co-located with significant events like Catering Asia, Tent Decor Asia, Biofach, and Ayuryog Expo. These events provide a comprehensive platform for the hospitality sector to network and share knowledge.

In his keynote address, Shekhawat expressed pride in the ministry's involvement in IHE. He noted that the event has significantly advanced India's hospitality industry over the past six years.

"IHE not only supports the Indian hospitality sector but also highlights its potential on the global stage," he said. "It is more than just an exhibition; it is the epicentre of the hospitality industry."

Tourism's Economic Potential

Shekhawat emphasized tourism's potential to help India become the third-largest economy. "India has all the resources to present a world-class tourism sector," he stated. "Tourism is the largest employment generator after agriculture."

He added that diversity and new business opportunities are emerging in this sector. "This is the perfect platform to learn about them," he said.

The minister also mentioned that India could become a perennial station for MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions) tourism. He stressed that progress in this field is crucial for bridging gaps.

International Participation and Collaborations

The event saw participation from international dignitaries like Ambassador of Myanmar Moe Kyaw Aung and Chief Trade Counsellor of the Embassy of Vietnam, Bui Trung Thuong. The India Expo Centre & Mart announced a collaboration with Vietnam as a partner country.

"Vietnamese exhibitors will showcase their products, and Vietnamese chefs will organize masterclasses on their native cuisines," said Bui Trung Thuong.

Himachal Pradesh has been inducted as the Focus State to showcase its potential during the event. The four-day Hospitality Sourcing Gala also features culinary competitions like Pastry Queen India Competition and Master Bakers Challenge India 2024.

The event underscores India's commitment to excelling in tourism and hospitality. "India is now coming up as a centre of attraction," Shekhawat concluded.