IFAT India 2025- The Stage Is Set

How is IFAT 2025 gearing up for its visitors this year, in terms of participants, focus sectors and more?

IFAT India 2025 is set to be our largest and most dynamic edition yet. We are expecting over 500 exhibitors showcasing more than 5,000 innovative products and solutions, with participation from across the globe. Dedicated country pavilions from Australia, Canada, Germany, Hungary, Korea, Norway and the Netherlands will provide visitors with direct access to international best practices and cutting-edge technologies. On the sectoral front, the show continues to provide comprehensive coverage across water, sewage, solid waste, and recycling – but this year, we are placing special emphasis on critical areas such as e-waste, bio-energy, SWAN and smarter solutions for urban local bodies. With over 28,000 visitors anticipated, IFAT India 2025 will once again serve as the most effective platform for technology discovery, collaboration, and business matchmaking in the sector.

Are we seeing any new initiatives at IFAT 2025?

Yes, absolutely. This year, we are expanding our focus through eight dedicated pavilions including Startups, Smarter SMEs, Bio-energy, E-waste, Urban Local Bodies (ULB), Smart Water Networks Forum (SWAN), International Water Association (IWA) and International Waste. These curated spaces are designed to spotlight both niche innovations and scalable solutions. Another key initiative is the 2,200 structured buyer-seller meetings we are organizing to foster concrete business opportunities for exhibitors and visitors alike. Additionally, we are creating stronger platforms for startups and SMEs, giving them greater visibility alongside global leaders – something we believe is essential to nurturing India’s innovation ecosystem.

Can you share some details on the planned conference program?

Our conference program has always been one of IFAT India’s strongest pillars, and 2025 will be no exception. We are bringing together over 200 thought leaders and domain experts across 50+ knowledge-sharing sessions featuring two stand-alone tracks on ‘Solid Waste Management’ and ‘Water & Wastewater Management’ under the guidance of the IFAT India Conference National Advisory Committee (NAC) – an expert committee on water, sewage & solid waste comprising industry doyens, ULB representatives, regulators, local government representatives, think tanks, researchers, academics, funding & developmental agencies. The discussions will range from policy and regulatory frameworks to advanced technologies in water management, waste-to-energy, circular economy models, and sustainable urban infrastructure. The program will also include international collaborations and technical case studies, ensuring participants gain both strategic and practical insights. These sessions are not just about learning but also about shaping the future roadmap of India’s environmental management landscape.

With the new thrust on waste management and recycling in India, how are international firms seeing this market? Have you seen a change in the interest from these firms?

The interest from international firms has grown significantly in recent years. India is now seen as one of the fastest-growing markets for environmental technologies, and global players are very keen to participate in this transformation. The presence of dedicated country pavilions comprising companies from Australia, Canada, Germany, Hungary, Korea, Norway and the Netherlands is a clear reflection of this global interest. International companies recognize both the scale of India’s challenges and the immense business opportunities in waste management, recycling, and circular economy solutions. At IFAT India, they not only showcase their expertise but also look for partnerships with Indian firms, policymakers, and local bodies to create sustainable, long-term impact.

How has IFAT India evolved over the past 5 years? Do share key highlights that you find worth mentioning.

The growth of IFAT India has been remarkable. In 2022, we hosted 258 exhibitors and welcomed 9,283 visitors. Fast forward to 2024, we had nearly doubled the number of exhibitors to 488 and recorded over 17,000 visitors. For 2025, we are looking at more than 500 exhibitors and an anticipated visitor base of 28,000 – an exponential trajectory that reflects the rising importance of environmental solutions in India. Beyond the numbers, what excites us most is the diversification of the show. We have moved from being a trade fair to a complete ecosystem – one that combines business, policy, innovation, and knowledge-sharing. The introduction of specialized pavilions, structured buyer-seller meetings, and a more global exhibitor profile has transformed IFAT India into the country’s largest trade platform for technologies and solutions for water, sewage, solid waste and recycling.