The second edition of India for MICE, held as part of World Events Economy Week (WEEW) 2026 at HITEX Exhibition Centre, Hyderabad, brought together government leaders, convention experts, destination representatives, global associations, and industry stakeholders to discuss India’s expanding role in the global meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE) industry.
The event focused on the opportunities and challenges shaping the future of India’s convention and exhibition ecosystem, with discussions centred on infrastructure development, sustainability, technology adoption, destination promotion, and international collaboration.
Addressing the gathering, Suman Billa highlighted the Government of India’s commitment to strengthening the MICE sector. He noted that India’s exhibition economy is growing at approximately 8.2 per cent annually, while the broader convention industry is expanding at nearly 15 per cent per year, significantly exceeding global growth rates.
Industry experts emphasised India’s strong economic fundamentals, growing middle class, and favourable demographic profile as key drivers for future MICE growth. According to Sebastian Witt, India currently accounts for around 8 per cent of Asia’s exhibition industry and approximately 2 per cent of the global market, highlighting significant untapped potential despite its rapid growth trajectory.
Adeline Vancauwelaert noted that India currently represents roughly 4 per cent of Asia-Pacific’s venue capacity, creating substantial opportunities for investment in world-class convention and exhibition infrastructure.
The conference also highlighted Hyderabad’s growing prominence as a convention destination, supported by government initiatives and expanding infrastructure. Ranjeet Naik reiterated Telangana’s commitment to positioning the state as a leading MICE destination through policy support and infrastructure development.
Industry leaders identified several priority areas for future growth, including artificial intelligence, technology-driven event management, sustainability, public-private partnerships, destination development, and international association meetings.
According to Anju Gomes, India hosted 1,446 international meetings, with the convention industry growing at approximately 13 per cent CAGR. She also highlighted that nearly 55 per cent of India’s convention market remains untapped, signalling significant growth opportunities.
The discussions reinforced a shared industry outlook that India is entering a defining decade for the MICE sector, supported by economic growth, policy initiatives, infrastructure investments, and increasing international interest.
India for MICE is one of three flagship platforms under WEEW 2026, alongside the South India Wedding Planners Congress and the Creative Economy Conclave, bringing together stakeholders from the events, tourism, hospitality, and creative industries.
