SIAL Paris 2026: World Food Fair Announces New Venue

During the last edition of SIAL Paris, we witnessed impressive figures: 285,000 professional visitors from 200 different nationalities, with 85% international attendance. Additionally, the fair brought together over 7,000 international exhibitors, showcasing more than 2,500 innovative products that set trends in the industry. Of course, countries like France, Italy, Spain, the United Kingdom, and the Netherlands led attendance, but the reach was truly global.

SIAL Paris 2026 Announces New Venue at Paris Nord Villepinte  
The SIAL organizing team has officially confirmed that the Parc des Expositions de Paris-Nord Villepinte will host the 45th edition of this major global food fair. This venue, strategically located in the Paris region, will welcome thousands of industry professionals from October 17 to 21, 2026.

It is worth noting that the organizing committee has made a significant change to the schedule: for the first time, SIAL Paris will open on a Saturday. This adjustment responds to the need to prevent traffic congestion and improve the experience for both visitors and exhibitors. The decision reflects the organizers' commitment to optimizing every logistical aspect of the event.

The official fair hours have been structured to maximize business and networking opportunities:  

• Saturday to Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 6:30 PM  
• Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM  
• Last admission allowed: 2:00 PM  

For those planning their visit, the exact address of the venue is: 82 Avenue des Nations, 93420 Villepinte, France. The organizers have also provided precise GPS coordinates: Longitude 2°31'06''E – Latitude 48°58'03''N, information particularly useful for the thousands of international visitors traveling to the French capital.

The Parc des Expositions de Paris-Nord Villepinte is globally recognized for its capacity to host large-scale events. Consequently, this space is ideal for a fair that, in its last edition, brought together over 7,500 exhibitors from 205 countries, solidifying its position as one of the most important commercial gatherings in the global food industry.

The choice of this venue is no coincidence. Its facilities are specifically designed to facilitate the display of more than 400,000 products presented during the five-day fair. Additionally, it boasts excellent public transportation connections, including the RER B train, which links central Paris directly to the Parc des Expositions Villepinte station, making it easily accessible for the expected 150,000+ professional visitors.

SIAL Paris has established itself as a biennial must-attend event, held exclusively in even-numbered years. Over five intense days, this space will become the global epicenter of food innovation, bringing together producers, distributors, restaurateurs, importers, and exporters from the sector.

Undoubtedly, this edition promises to be one of the most influential in the food industry, maintaining its tradition as a privileged platform for presenting trends and innovations. The SIAL Paris team looks forward to welcoming all professionals to what they describe as "the world's largest food innovation village," where the industry will find inspiration and unprecedented business opportunities.

The international projection of SIAL Paris 2026 is reinforced by its integration into the global SIAL network, with a presence on multiple continents. This global reach has allowed the organization to develop deep knowledge of all industry players, becoming a recognized and privileged observer of worldwide food trends and innovations.

The organizers have confirmed that registrations for both exhibitors and visitors are now open and recommend booking accommodations in advance, given the high demand expected for this premier international event.

Event Brings Together Over 7,000 Exhibitors from 127 Countries  
The SIAL Paris 2026 food fair will solidify its position as the planet's largest food innovation observatory, bringing together an impressive number of over 7,000 exhibitors from 127 different countries. This figure reflects the extraordinary international reach of the event, where 90% of participants will be foreign, making SIAL Paris a true global epicenter of the food industry.

The magnitude of this business gathering translates into concrete numbers: nearly 265,000 professionals will attend this key event, with approximately 85% being international visitors. Additionally, the presence of around 8,000 high-level buyers is expected, collectively representing an impressive purchasing power estimated at over €50 billion.

During the event, exhibitors will hold an average of 200 business meetings, highlighting SIAL Paris's effectiveness as a platform for establishing strategic connections and developing commercial opportunities. These contacts are particularly valuable, considering that more than half of the visitors are buyers and distributors, including wholesalers, importers, exporters, centralized purchasing groups, retail chains, and specialty stores.

Participation of Major Groups and Startups  
The diversity of participants is one of SIAL Paris 2026's greatest attractions. From established corporations to emerging ventures, the event will host companies of all sizes and backgrounds. This variety allows professional visitors to discover not only industry-leading products but also disruptive innovations that will shape trends in the near future.

A highlight will be the space dedicated exclusively to emerging startups, where attendees can explore proposals anticipating tomorrow's food trends. Consequently, this area will become a focal point for investors and buyers interested in identifying innovative concepts with the potential to transform the market.

Regarding the exhibitor offerings, visitors will have access to over 400,000 products from around the world. This abundance of proposals spans all food sectors: beverages, cured meats, canned goods, staple foods, gourmet products, fruits and vegetables, organic products, fish and seafood, health foods and dietary supplements, dairy, frozen foods, bakery, pastry and confectionery, delicatessen, meats, wines, poultry and game, among others.

Presence of National Pavilions and World Regions  
The 2026 edition of SIAL Paris will stand out for its extraordinary geographical diversity. National pavilions will represent countries from all continents, offering a global perspective on the food industry. Additionally, there will be spaces dedicated to various regions of France, allowing visitors to delve into the rich gastronomic tradition of the host country.

A significant precedent from previous editions that sets the tone for 2026: for the first time in SIAL's history, Italy positioned itself as the country with the highest representation, with over 800 exhibitors promoting the simplicity and finesse of its cuisine. This trend may continue, though strong participation from other European countries is also expected.

The last edition also saw a notable influx of buyers from Turkey, the United States, South Korea, and Brazil. Notably, the South Korean pavilion stood out with 132 brands on display, where Korean chefs and renowned French chef Eric Trochon showcased the culinary skills of the Asian country.

SIAL Paris 2026 will not only be an essential event for the European food industry but will also span all five continents. The fair will attract professional visitors from multiple sectors: retail, distribution, food services, manufacturing, and international trade. Undoubtedly, this multinational dimension will make SIAL Paris 2026 the ideal platform for food industry companies to expand their international reach and explore new markets.

SIAL Innovation Presents Over 2,500 Disruptive Products  
One of the highlights of SIAL Paris 2026 will be the SIAL Innovation space, which solidifies its position as the world's most important global food innovation observatory. This segment will showcase over 2,500 innovative products to visitors, a figure representing nearly 10% of all global food innovation.

SIAL Innovation is not just an exhibition; it is the epicenter where trends defining the future of the food sector are born. During the five-day event, this space will become a must-visit reference point for those seeking to discover the most revolutionary products on the market. Undoubtedly, 9 out of 10 professional visitors consider this segment strategic for their businesses.

Awards in 15 Categories  
The SIAL Innovation competition, considered Europe's largest food contest, recognizes excellence and creativity in the food sector across more than 15 categories. The main awards are divided into three levels of distinction:  

• Gold Award: Highest recognition for the most outstanding innovation  
• Silver Award: Second place in innovative excellence  
• Bronze Award: Third place among presented innovations  

Additionally, approximately twenty sector-specific awards recognize innovation in particular areas of the industry. For the 2026 edition, the structure of special awards introduced in 2024 will remain, including:  

• The 60th Anniversary Award, recognizing the most outstanding innovation among all competition winners since its inception  
• The Top 3 Countries Award, honoring the three nations with the highest number of innovative products  
• The Africa Award, focused on highlighting innovation in the African market  
• The Concept Award, aimed at products in the testing or launch phase  

Winning one of these awards represents a true boost for companies, granting them maximum visibility before, during, and after the event. Winners also gain numerous opportunities to establish strategic business contacts.

Trends Selected by International Experts  
The selection of products for SIAL Innovation is overseen by an international jury composed of industry analysis experts, buyers, and research specialists. These professionals rigorously evaluate each proposal based on criteria such as originality, consumer benefits, and potential to revolutionize the market.

Certainly, not every product can be considered innovative by SIAL's standards. To participate in the competition, products must introduce genuine advancements, whether functional, technological, or conceptual, making them true agents of change in their category.

During the event, selected and award-winning products enjoy privileged exposure. Consequently, they are prominently displayed in the SIAL Innovation area, a space visited by over 60,000 professionals in 2022. Similarly, Grand Prize winners (Gold, Silver, and Bronze) will travel across the SIAL network (Canada, China, Malaysia, Indonesia, and India) through the World Champions Tour.

SIAL Paris 2026 visitors will experience these innovations firsthand via the "Innovation Trail," a route designed to guide buyers and decision-makers directly to the stands of award-winning exhibitors. For the first time, they will also be able to taste products from the SIAL Innovation selection in the new SIAL Taste space.

For exhibitors interested in participating, the selection process begins months before the event. Selected companies receive the "Innovative Company Selected for SIAL Innovation 2026" distinction and can use the "SIAL Innovation" logo, guaranteeing them recognition in the sector even before the fair begins.

Exploring the heart of the exhibition, professional visitors will witness revolutionary innovations and discover upcoming trends selected by experts. This unique experience positions SIAL Paris 2026 as a window into the future of global food.

SIAL Talks and Start-up Drive Debate and Inspiration  
SIAL Talks solidifies its position as the most influential discussion and presentation forum within SIAL Paris 2026, where international experts will explore ideas that will transform the global food market. This space serves as an essential platform for understanding, analyzing, and exchanging ideas about the food of the future, reflecting emerging trends in the food ecosystem.

Conferences on Sustainability, Technology, and Consumption  
SIAL Talks will bring together high-level international experts addressing crucial topics for the food industry. During these conferences, attendees will have the opportunity to delve into fundamental themes such as:  

• Sustainable development and strategies to reduce ecological footprints  
• New technologies and innovative processes redefining industry standards  
• Transformation of business models in a globalized market  
• Analysis of consumer behavior and consumption trends  
• Social and environmental responsibility in the food value chain  

These sessions will not be simple presentations but authentic debate spaces where thought leaders, innovators, and industry experts share their knowledge about the latest challenges and opportunities in food production, sustainability, and consumer behavior. Undoubtedly, attendees will gain valuable insights to stay ahead of the competition.

Additionally, for the first time, SIAL Paris 2026 will incorporate "Summits," an unprecedented format going beyond inspiration to offer forward-looking content with internationally renowned speakers. These summits will address specific themes such as Africa, deep tech, artificial intelligence, supply chain, and CSR.

Another highlight will be the SIAL For Change award, the first competition dedicated to Corporate Social Responsibility launched by SIAL Paris in collaboration with the consulting firm Hyssop. This initiative represents a new step in the event's commitments to promote sustainable and socially responsible practices in the global food industry.

Pitches from New Food Companies  
The SIAL Start-up space will be the epicenter of tomorrow's food innovation, where we will discover hidden gems of the industry. Under the slogan #OwnTheChange, SIAL Paris highlights innovative solutions addressing future changes in sectors like agriculture and agri-food.

For the first time, SIAL Paris 2026 will offer startups the opportunity to present their projects on the SIAL Pitch stage, located at the heart of the SIAL Start-up area. This platform will allow entrepreneurs to capture investors' attention, boost their activity, and demonstrate their growth potential.

Attendees will meet emerging companies developing solutions to create healthier and more environmentally friendly products. They will also find startups reinventing the restaurant business or supporting manufacturers in zero-waste policies, as well as those innovating in the retail sector.

Certainly, the presence of investors supporting innovation will be an added value. These investment experts will be available to discover the most promising startups, engage with them, and potentially initiate new collaborations. Their presence represents a unique opportunity for entrepreneurs to increase their visibility and gain momentum for their projects.

From revolutionary tools and cutting-edge technology to intelligent software platforms, visitors will discover how startups are transforming the food industry. They can interact with innovative projects, ask incisive questions, and explore collaboration opportunities in this dynamic entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Professional Visitors from 200 Countries Reinforce Global Reach  
The international magnitude of SIAL Paris is primarily reflected in its diversity of attendees. With projections exceeding 285,000 professional visitors from over 200 countries, this fair positions itself as a true global meeting point for the food sector. Certainly, the event's global character is evident with an impressive 85% international attendance, making Paris the world capital of food during the fair's five days.

The global reach of SIAL Paris 2026 is not limited to numbers alone but represents a unique opportunity to establish international business contacts. Consequently, the fair has solidified its position as a strategic event for 9 out of 10 participating companies, underscoring its relevance in the global food landscape.

Distribution, Food Service, and Agri-Food Industry  
Sector diversity is another fundamental pillar of SIAL Paris. The event attracts professionals from all areas of the food chain: distribution, import-export, food service, services, and food processing companies. This variety makes the fair a complete business ecosystem, where opportunities transcend sectoral boundaries.

Among the attendees, 8,000 high-level buyers stand out, representing considerable purchasing power for exhibitors. The fair's commercial impact is undeniable, as 83% of these buyers conduct transactions during the event or as a direct result of their participation.

Moreover, SIAL Paris goes beyond being a mere trade exhibition. Undoubtedly, it has transformed into a genuine business ecosystem designed to foster business development and strategic partnerships. The fair facilitates opportunities for cross-border collaboration and market expansion, regardless of the specific sector: agriculture, beverages, or retail.

Top 5 Visiting Countries: France, Italy, Spain, United Kingdom, Netherlands  
Although SIAL Paris welcomes visitors from over 200 nations, clear trends emerge regarding the main origins. The five countries with the highest visitor representation are, in order: France, Italy, Spain, the United Kingdom, and the Netherlands. This data reflects the strong European presence at the event, without diminishing its truly global reach.

Similarly, it is important to note that the list of top-attending countries may vary by edition. For example, some sources include nations like the United States, South Korea, Brazil, Argentina, Belgium, Germany, and China in the top 10, demonstrating the continental diversity of participants.

The international origin of visitors confirms SIAL Paris as an unparalleled platform for companies seeking to expand their global presence. Therefore, the event offers an exceptional opportunity to establish commercial connections with markets across all continents, from the most established to emerging ones with the highest growth potential.

The multicultural and multisectoral nature of attendees makes SIAL Paris 2026 a must-attend event for any food industry professional with international ambitions, reaffirming its position as the world's most influential food fair.

International SIAL Network Strengthens Global Projection  
The SIAL network is not limited to its flagship event in Paris. Over the past decades, it has built an impressive global presence that strengthens its position as a world leader in the food industry. The establishment of the SIAL Network has turned the brand into a global phenomenon with events on multiple continents, maintaining the spirit of innovation that characterizes SIAL Paris in each one.

SIAL in Canada, China, India, Indonesia, and More  
SIAL China, launched in 1999 initially in Singapore and moved to Shanghai in 2000, represents one of the brand's first steps in international expansion. Over 24 years, this event has attracted over 40,000 exhibitors and surpassed one million professional visitors. Due to growing demand in the Chinese market, SIAL Shenzhen opened its doors just two years ago.

In the Americas, SIAL Canada was established in 2001, alternating annually between Montreal and Toronto. This event enjoys the support of federal and provincial governments and is the only one bringing together the retail, food service, and equipment sectors under one roof.

Similarly, SIAL Interfood in Jakarta (launched in 2015) and SIAL India in New Delhi (since 2019) have consolidated the brand's presence in Asia. Recently, Mumbai joined as a new host city for SIAL India, offering greater opportunities in the Indian market. Meanwhile, Food & Drinks Malaysia joined the network in 2022, positioning itself as a regional leader.

Connection with Emerging and Established Markets  
The SIAL network serves as a unique forum for exchanges, meetings, and discussions worldwide. This international platform helps brands fully leverage emerging opportunities, particularly in Indonesia and India, where specific events are organized for companies to network, collaborate, and explore market-specific trends.

For 2025, SIAL has major events scheduled in key cities: SIAL Toronto (April 29 – May 1), SIAL Shanghai (May 19–21), and SIAL Jakarta (November 5–8). Each is designed to showcase innovative products and provide insights into global and regional trends.

Undoubtedly, this international network remains a vital platform for the global food industry, addressing the rapidly evolving demands of diverse markets and connecting businesses across continents. SIAL's presence in established and emerging markets helps food companies strengthen their competitive position in the ever-evolving global food industry.

Conclusion: SIAL Paris 2026, Global Epicenter of Food Innovation  
SIAL Paris 2026 undoubtedly promises to solidify its position as the most influential event in the global agri-food sector. This 45th edition, scheduled for October 17–21 at Paris Nord Villepinte, will reaffirm its role as a strategic platform for all industry professionals.

The numbers speak for themselves: 285,000 professional visitors from 200 different countries, over 7,000 international exhibitors, and 2,500 innovative products that will define future trends. These figures clearly reflect the scale of the event we are organizing.

Certainly, SIAL Paris offers concrete benefits for all participants. Exhibitors can hold up to 200 meetings during the five-day event, while buyers access a universe of 400,000 products in one place. The estimated investment potential of €50 billion makes this fair an extraordinary commercial opportunity.

SIAL Innovation, meanwhile, remains the beating heart of our event. The 2,500 disruptive products evaluated by international experts represent nearly 10% of all global food innovation. Similarly, the SIAL Talks and SIAL Start-up spaces will transform Paris into a forum for revolutionary ideas where experts debate sustainability, technology, and new consumption patterns.

Another fundamental aspect lies in our international projection. The SIAL network, present in Canada, China, India, Indonesia, and other countries, continually strengthens our global position. This reach connects emerging and established markets, offering unique opportunities for companies of all sizes.

SIAL Paris 2026 will not simply be a trade fair. Over five intense days, this space will become the global epicenter of food innovation. Nine out of ten participants consider this event strategic for their businesses, a fact underscoring the relevance of this unique platform.

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