IHGF Delhi Fair 2026: Sourcing momentum continues, reaffirms show’s international popularity

Delhi/NCR – 15th February 2026 – The 61st edition of IHGF Delhi Fair – Spring 2026, being organised from 14th to 18th February 2026 by the Export Promotion Council for Hapndicrafts (EPCH) and hosted at the state-of-the-art India Expo Centre & Mart on the Greater Noida continues to gather both long-standing patrons and first-time trade visitors. Reflecting India’s diverse geographical and cultural heritage, the fair showcases products shaped by a rich tradition of craftsmanship and an abundant raw material base. Over 3000 exhibitors in halls, 900 in permanent showrooms, theme presentations and many supportive elements make it a comprehensive show.

Dr. Neeraj Khanna, Chairman, EPCH said, “Featuring 16 diverse product categories across 17 large halls at the India Expo Centre & Mart, the fair remains a source of inspiration and excitement for all. Here, attendees have the opportunity to connect with makers, draw inspiration and procure creations from a wide spectrum of manufacturers hailing from various regions of India. Both long-standing associates and first-time visitors have conveyed a growing preference for Indian suppliers, appreciating their distinctive handcrafted value addition and the ability to present stylish product lines aligned with evolving global trends. While contemporary aesthetics are widely embraced, buyers consistently reiterate that India’s handcrafting excellence and intricate workmanship remain unparalleled, continuing to captivate discerning global connoisseurs.”

Dr. Rakesh Kumar, Director General in the role of Chief Mentor, EPCH and Chairman, IEML said, “The India Expo Centre & Mart has once again emerged as a dynamic meeting ground for meaningful business engagement, connecting experienced global buyers with India’s seasoned exporters and the emerging second and third generations of entrepreneurial leadership.” He further noted that exhibitors are presenting a vibrant spectrum of eco-conscious products, including cotton and jute-based lifestyle accessories, hand-painted artisanal apparel crafted with natural dyes, décor items created from recycled fabric and paper and fashion accessories made from plant fibres harvested in harmony with nature’s seasonal cycles. “These sustainable innovations are resonating strongly with buyers and are witnessing significant traction,” he added.

“The fair is progressing well with its supporting events,” said Sagar Mehta, Vice Chairman, EPCH and shared, “Exhibitors and attendees gained valuable insights from the seminars held today. The seminar ‘Leveraging India’s Recent Free Trade Agreements for Enhancing Exports Growth’ by a senior industrial consultant on global trade, aimed to equip participants with practical strategies to harness the recently signed FTAs, including India-UK CETA, India-EU FTA, India-UAE CEPA, etc. Another, titled, ‘Market Diversification-Emerging Destinations and Trend Drivers’ provided a comprehensive understanding into emerging market trends and buyer behaviour relevant to Indian handicrafts. The guest faculty, a senior academician in a management institute of repute, aimed to guide attendees, especially MSME exporters diversify their market base beyond traditional destinations. The session highlighted market entry strategies and trade dynamics, including FTAs, logistics and export procedures relevant to these regions.”

Gautam Nathany, Vice President, IHGF Delhi Fair-Spring 2026 Reception Committee added, “the seminar, ‘Sustainability – More Than a Trend!’ conducted engagingly with physical product examples by an international consultant from Germany demonstrated how sustainability drives competitive advantage in handicrafts exports, equipping participants with actionable strategies to integrate eco-friendly practices, meet global standards and capture premium market segments for sustained growth.”

Anand Jalan, Vice President, IHGF Delhi Fair-Spring 2026 Reception Committee said, “An Exclusive live Art Auction of India’s Master Crafts, facilitated by the Office of the Development Commissioner (Handicrafts), Ministry of Textiles, Govt. of India, took place at the fair premises this evening. The response was good with the presence of art connoisseurs, collectors and overseas buyers, besides those interested in exceptionally crafted handicrafts. Many items sold, some at more than double of the reserve price.”

Rajesh Rawat, Executive Director, EPCH said, “For many buyers, the fair is serving as a vibrant hub of innovation and artistic fusion, showcasing a seamless blend of timeless classics and contemporary influences. From transitional elements to elegantly simple yet unexpectedly striking designs inspired by nature and everyday experiences, the fair is offering a captivating journey through the realms of craftsmanship and creativity. Our buyers are positively eloquent about their experiences at the fair. ”

Many buyers are keen on home and garden products. Wendy Patchett, a wholesaler for home décor and garden décor products says, “I find wood and enamel products from India comparatively good, especially the finishing, intricate detailing and the expertise in working with recycled materials for outdoor items.” Another buyer from USA, Bradley from shared that he is here to source home décor—candle stands, garden décor and accent pieces. “I also discovered some exceptional glassware. Sourcing from India is central to what we do and moving away from India isn’t an option for us”, he added. Isabelle Isambert, a buyer from France is at the fair for inspiration and sourcing of customised fashion jewellery in brass, gold plating, silver and other lustrous materials with Indian craftsmanship. Teresa Soares from Poland is here for artisanal garments and home furnishing for her customers across Europe.