Exhibitions – India Unveils First Independent Report on Economic Impact of Trade Events
Exhibitions – India’s exhibitions industry has received fresh recognition with the release of the country’s first independent Economic Impact Report dedicated to trade exhibitions. Unveiled in New Delhi by Union Tourism and Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, the report has been prepared in collaboration with research firm EY and highlights the growing contribution of exhibitions to India’s economy and tourism sector.
Report Highlights Contribution of Exhibition Industry
The study evaluates the economic significance of India’s travel and tourism industry while placing particular emphasis on the South Asia Travel and Tourism Exchange (SATTE). According to the findings, the exhibition has become an important platform for connecting businesses, encouraging partnerships, and supporting the expansion of the travel and tourism ecosystem across the region.
Addressing the gathering, Shekhawat said exhibitions have become an essential force behind economic progress by encouraging trade, supporting entrepreneurship, and attracting investment. He noted that such events create opportunities for businesses to collaborate, exchange knowledge, and strengthen commercial networks, ultimately contributing to broader economic development. He also described SATTE as South Asia’s premier travel and tourism exhibition.
Government Focus on Strengthening the MICE Sector
The minister also referred to the government’s “Meet in India” initiative, which is designed to position the country as a preferred destination for Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE). He said continuous improvements in infrastructure demonstrate the government’s commitment to expanding this segment and enhancing India’s appeal for international business events.
Officials believe that stronger convention facilities, better connectivity, and improved visitor infrastructure will help the country attract a greater number of global conferences and exhibitions in the coming years.
Study Offers Data-Driven Insights
Suman Billa, Additional Secretary and Director General at the Ministry of Tourism, said the report provides reliable evidence of the value generated by exhibitions. He explained that while the industry’s economic importance has long been acknowledged, much of the discussion previously relied on observations rather than measurable data.
According to Billa, the newly released assessment presents credible findings that quantify the contribution of exhibitions to business activity and economic growth. He added that these events also serve as valuable sources of market intelligence by bringing together businesses, industry experts, and decision-makers under one platform.
Industry Sees Long-Term Value
Yogesh Mudras, Managing Director of Informa Markets in India, said the report is expected to become an important resource for policymakers, tourism authorities, investors, and businesses involved in shaping the future of India’s travel and tourism industry.
He noted that the assessment is the first independent study to comprehensively evaluate the economic role of exhibitions in the country. Beyond measuring direct financial benefits, the report also highlights the wider influence of business events in supporting tourism, encouraging investment, and creating opportunities across multiple sectors.
Industry stakeholders believe the findings could help guide future policy decisions while reinforcing the importance of exhibitions as drivers of economic activity. The report is also expected to support efforts aimed at strengthening India’s position as a leading destination for international business events and tourism-related trade exhibitions.