In 2025, Food Africa and pacprocess MEA reached a size that confirms the strong growth seen in recent years. From 9 to 12 December, around 37,000 visitors travelled to the Egypt International Exhibition Centre in Cairo. For the first time, about 1,200 exhibitors presented their products and solutions. The exhibition area was expanded and included an additional temporary hall, yet all available space was fully booked.

Due to high participation, the trade fairs ran for four days for the first time. The additional day confirmed the strong need, in the region, for a meeting point where the food industry and the processing and packaging sectors can build business relationships. Egypt stands out as a strategic hub thanks to its expanding economy and its geopolitical position, which connects Africa and the Middle East.

“The successful 2025 editions are a testament to the exceptional development of Food Africa and pacprocess MEA in recent years, reaching a new milestone this year”, says Wolfram N. Diener, Chairman and President of Messe Düsseldorf. “The growth of our trade fairs showcases the potential of Africa and the MEA region, which we are unlocking for our customers here. It is a strategic mission for Messe Düsseldorf to continue expanding this framework together with our partners.”

The trade fair duo is organised by Messe Düsseldorf together with its local partners, ifp and Konzept. Both events are part of the interpack alliance network.

Dynamic growth across all segments
With around 1,200 exhibitors from 51 countries and 50,000 square metres of exhibition space, Food Africa and pacprocess MEA saw substantial growth compared to the previous year. The number of exhibitors, exhibition area and level of international participation were all substantially higher than in 2024. This growth was driven by new country pavilions and the strong return of established exhibitors, who have attended the trade fair for many years. Alongside Egypt, the largest exhibiting nation, Turkey and India were also among the top three. Furthermore, exhibitors were represented in 17 country pavilions.

Food Africa celebrates 10 years of growth

Food Africa and pacprocess — **From 2026 onwards, pacprocess MEA will take on a new name: interpack MEA. (photo: interpack)**

A gala evening with around 400 invited guests marked the highlight of the celebrations for the tenth anniversary of Food Africa. The event honoured those companies and institutions that have played a decisive role in shaping the development of the trade fair over the years. Awards were presented in several categories, including the “Food Africa Pioneer Exhibitor” honour, recognising exhibitors of the very first hour who had already taken part in the premiere edition in 2015.

pacprocess MEA becomes interpack MEA

pacprocess MEA has developed into a strong platform in Egypt alongside Food Africa over the past six years. It has set important course directions for the technological and industrial advancement of the region in the fields of packaging and production. From 2026 onwards, pacprocess MEA will take on a new name: interpack MEA. This strategic development will strengthen its integration within the interpack alliance, creating a clearer positioning for processing and packaging technologies in Africa and the MEA region. The joint appearance with Food Africa will remain unchanged.