How IHE Facilitates Global Partnerships for India’s Hospitality Industry

India’s hospitality industry is on a roll, valued at USD 24.61 billion in 2024 and expected to reach USD 47.83 billion by 2034 with a 5% CAGR. With 9.2 million foreign tourists in 2023 and domestic travel soaring, global partnerships are key to staying ahead. The India International Hospitality Expo (IHE), held August 3–6, 2025, in Greater Noida, is a leading global hospitality event that connects Indian hoteliers, restaurateurs, and suppliers with international players. From technology transfers to cultural exchanges, IHE is your gateway to global growth. Here’s how it fosters partnerships and how you can tap into this opportunity.

Why Global Partnerships Are Vital for India’s Hospitality Sector

India’s hospitality market is thriving, driven by spiritual tourism (60% of tourism), MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, Exhibitions), and government support like Swadesh Darshan 2.0, which backs 57 sustainable destinations. Foreign direct investment (FDI) of USD 13.16 billion from 2000–2024 shows global confidence. Partnering with international brands, tourism boards, and suppliers helps Indian businesses adopt cutting-edge solutions, attract the 30.5 million foreign tourists expected by 2028, and expand into high-growth areas like Tier II/III cities, where demand grows at 13% annually.

How IHE Drives Global Partnerships

IHE 2025 hosts over 1,000 exhibitors from 16+ countries and 25,000+ B2B buyers, making it a powerhouse for collaboration. Here’s how this global hospitality event fuels international partnerships for India’s hospitality industry.

1. Connecting with Global Exhibitors

IHE brings together international brands and Indian leaders like OYO and Taj Hotels. In 2024, Vietnam, a partner country, showcased premium F&B products and culinary expertise. These connections let Indian hoteliers:

• Partner with global tech firms for property management systems (PMS) or AI-driven guest services.

• Source high-quality products, like European silverware or Asian spices, to elevate dining experiences.

• Example: A company at IHE 2024 grew from 70 to 300 hotels after partnering with global suppliers.

2. Networking with Tourism Boards

Tourism boards from India and abroad attend IHE to promote destinations and policies. Networking with them can:

• Unlock government schemes like PRASHAD, supporting 46 pilgrimage projects, or tax holidays near India’s 42 UNESCO sites.

• Market your hotel to spiritual tourists (e.g., Ayodhya’s 50–100 new hotels by 2028) or MICE travelers (Chennai’s 21.7% RevPAR growth in Q1 2024).

• Example: Vietnam’s trade counsellor at IHE 2024 linked Indian hoteliers with Southeast Asian markets.

3. Showcasing Global Innovations

IHE’s focus on “Hospitality Automation & Robotics” highlights global trends like AI and eco-friendly solutions. Indian businesses can:

• Adopt sustainable equipment, like touchless dispensers, aligning with India’s 250 Green Globe-certified hotels.

• Integrate vegetarian/Jain-friendly F&B solutions, addressing guest preferences noted in online feedback.

4. Facilitating Technology Transfer

IHE’s tech exhibits enable Indian hoteliers to adopt global innovations. Partnerships with international vendors can:

• Bring mobile check-ins or revenue management tools, vital for India’s high-demand markets.

• Introduce AI chatbots to personalize guest experiences for millennials and Gen Z.

• Example: IHE 2024 featured advanced guest management systems, sparking tech collaborations.

5. Promoting Cultural Exchange

India’s cultural heritage, from spiritual sites to vegetarian cuisine, attracts global partners. IHE’s F&B and textile sections showcase:

• Jain/vegetarian dining solutions, meeting local guest needs.

• Cultural experiences, like heritage-inspired decor, to draw international tourists.

6. Supporting Regional Expansion

IHE connects Indian businesses with global players targeting Tier II/III cities, where infrastructure drives 13% demand growth. Partnerships can:

• Support hotel projects in emerging hubs like Jaipur or Guwahati, as seen with IHCL’s INR 2,500 crore Northeast India investment.

• Facilitate collaborations with global chains like Marriott expanding in these markets.

7. Enabling Investment Opportunities

With USD 13.16 billion in FDI, IHE is a hub for investors. Indian businesses can:

• Pitch to global chains or funds for joint ventures in MICE or spiritual tourism.

• Secure funding for sustainable projects, aligning with Swadesh Darshan 2.0.

8. Boosting Export Opportunities

IHE enables Indian businesses to export hospitality products, like textiles or F&B ingredients, to global markets. Partnerships can:

• Connect Indian suppliers with international buyers, as seen with Vietnam’s 2024 participation.

• Expand India’s hospitality footprint globally.

Tips for Building Global Partnerships at IHE

To maximize IHE 2025 as a global hospitality event:

• Pre-Register: Pre-Register to access the exhibitor directory and schedule meetings.

• Craft Your Pitch: Highlight your hotel’s strengths, like vegetarian dining or pilgrimage proximity.

• Use Digital Tools: Arrange virtual follow-ups via IHE’s platform.

• Follow Up: Exchange contacts and nurture relationships post-event.

Conclusion

IHE 2025 is your ticket to global partnerships that can transform your hotel or restaurant in India’s USD 47.83 billion hospitality market. From technology transfers to investment opportunities, this global hospitality event connects you with the world. Register at ihexpo website and take your business global.

FAQs

Q: What makes IHE 2025 a key global hospitality event?
A: IHE 2025 hosts 1,000+ exhibitors from 16+ countries and 25,000+ buyers, offering unmatched opportunities for global partnerships in India’s hospitality sector.

Q: How does IHE support tech partnerships?
A: IHE showcases automation, AI, and PMS, enabling Indian hoteliers to partner with global tech vendors for modern solutions.

Q: What global exhibitors attend IHE?
A: Exhibitors from 16+ countries offer tech (e.g., AI chatbots), F&B products (e.g., spices), and sustainable solutions, like Vietnam’s 2024 showcases.

Q: How do tourism boards at IHE help hoteliers?
A: They provide access to schemes like PRASHAD, promote destinations like Ayodhya, and connect you to MICE or spiritual tourism markets.

Q: What’s the best way to network at IHE 2025?
A: Pre-register on www.ihexpo.com, attend HRANI Convention sessions and networking dinners, and pitch your hotel’s unique offerings.

Q: How does IHE support Tier II/III city expansion?
A: IHE connects Indian businesses with global chains investing in emerging hubs like Guwahati, facilitating hotel development partnerships.