INDIAWOOD 2026 to focus on India’s woodworking and furniture manufacturing sector

From 26 February to 2 March 2026, Bengaluru will host a major gathering of the woodworking and furniture manufacturing industry as INDIAWOOD 2026 takes place at the Bangalore International Exhibition Centre (BIEC). The 26th edition of the biennial exhibition continues to serve as a platform for woodworking, furniture production and mattress manufacturing. The 2026 edition will feature over 1,000 exhibitors from more than 50 countries, attract over 90,000 industry professionals and cover 85,000 sqm of exhibition space, marking a 15% increase over the previous edition. The participation reflects continued interest in India’s manufacturing ecosystem and aligns with the country’s focus on advanced manufacturing and export competitiveness. An industry representative said the 2026 edition reflects the sector’s expansion and India’s position in global supply chains. International participation and the emphasis on technology, sustainability and skill development indicate the industry’s ongoing efforts to scale operations and improve competitiveness. The exhibition comes at a time when the proposed India–EU Free Trade Agreement is under discussion. The agreement is expected to improve market access to European economies, reduce tariffs on several traded goods and support exports of engineered wood products and components. It may also facilitate the inflow of machinery and industrial inputs from Europe, contributing to domestic manufacturing capacity. The changing trade environment could support exports, innovation and international collaboration, areas linked to the exhibition’s scope. On the manufacturing front, the 2026 edition will highlight compact door and fitting systems designed for precision engineering, optimised material usage and integration into production lines. Surface technologies will be featured alongside materials such as woodgrains, veneers, rattan and fabric-finish surfaces, addressing demand for durability, consistency and design flexibility. Sustainability remains a focus for the industry. Exhibitors are expected to present certified wood solutions, bio-based adhesives, low-emission products and production practices aligned with environmental standards. Interior solutions designed for acoustic performance and institutional use will also be displayed, reflecting changing design requirements. Technology and automation will be key areas of discussion. The exhibition will include automation-based manufacturing systems, compact and upgradeable machinery, CNC processing equipment and digital production planning tools. These systems support the shift towards Industry 4.0 and smart manufacturing, with the aim of improving productivity and operational efficiency. A one-day conference scheduled for 27 February will bring together architects, designers and manufacturers to discuss the role of wood in architecture, construction and sustainable design, with a focus on linking production capabilities to application trends. Skill development initiatives will also form part of the platform, aimed at improving workforce readiness and manufacturing standards. A concurrent B2B trade fair focused on mattress and upholstery production will take place alongside the exhibition. It will feature over 120 national and international participants presenting machinery, materials and related solutions for the segment. Since 2018, the organisers have expanded the exhibition into a broader industry platform. The event now covers multiple segments of the value chain, from machinery and manufacturing to surfaces and applications, supporting a furniture market projected to reach USD 40 billion by 2030. As trade conditions evolve and India continues to develop its manufacturing base, INDIAWOOD 2026 will provide a platform for engagement between domestic industry and international stakeholders.