Savouring the World at FHA 2026: A Firsthand Experience at Asia’s Ultimate F&B Trade Event

Food & Hospitality Asia (FHA), Asia’s premier international food and hospitality trade event, officially opened its doors on 21 April at the Singapore EXPO, with Ms Low Yen Ling, Senior Minister of State for the Ministry of Trade and Industry, as the Guest of Honour.

Taking place from 21 April to 24 April 2026, FHA 2026 brings together the best of Food & Beverage and HoReCa (Hotel, Restaurant, Cafe), co-locating with ProWine Singapore and IndusFood Asia in a single edition. The unified event has cemented itself as the ultimate one stop platform for Asia’s F&B professionals and industry leaders to source efficiently from global suppliers, establish valuable connections, and gain fresh insights on the latest market trends.

We attended day one of the event, and it was clear from the moment we stepped into the exhibition halls that this year feels different. Having covered FHA in previous years, we can say with confidence that this edition is bigger than before. Spanning 10 halls with 76 group pavilions, the event showcases more than 800,000 F&B innovations.

Over 2,750 exhibitors are taking part, with 80% being international names like Lamb Weston and Anchor Food Professionals and 37% first time participants. Among them, the European Union takes centre stage as the Region of Honour, highlighting its exceptional premium products.

Perhaps the trade war tensions and shifting global supply chains have pushed more countries to aggressively seek new business partnerships. Whatever the reason, every major trade commission seems to be here in full force, doing their job to secure more deals and showcase what their regions have to offer.

The Italian Trade Agency, for instance, has brought over 100 Italian brands to FHA 2026, marking the largest Italian and European representation at the event. A key highlight is the Italian Taste Lab, an immersive culinary platform where ingredients from authentic Italian brands are brought to life through live cooking demonstrations by renowned Italian chefs based in Singapore.

Italian cuisine luminary and culinary educator Chef David Marchiori kicked off the four day showcase, leading a series of demonstrations featuring seven authentic Italian brands including Acetaia Giusti, Casa Milo, Ghidetti, La Rustichella Truffles, Madama Oliva, Molino Denti and Monini.

Walking through the halls, we savoured food from around the world. It is truly a global feast. From Italian olive oils and truffles to Asian specialty ingredients and European dairy products, the sheer variety on offer is overwhelming in the best possible way.

We also made it a point to learn about the latest trends and happenings in the industry. Some personal favourites caught our attention. One was a goji berry energy drink that delivers a natural boost. Another was a natural taste substitute for salt that contains no sodium and is made entirely from natural healthy ingredients.

Debuting at FHA 2026 is FutureFWD, a brand new segment focusing on innovative technology across foodservice, hospitality and retail. It features a dedicated seminar stage and exhibitors spotlighting next generation solutions.

Industry leaders revolutionising food service and hospitality include RestoSuite, Singtel Stack EZ, Seito, Xilnex Holdings, Rolo Robotics, Koomi, Lunchbox Asia, OpenTable, Zennio and Razer Fintech. Together, these innovators are shaping the future of hospitality with automation, digital integration and secure payment solutions.

The newly expanded Coffee, Tea and Bar segment now includes bar equipment and solutions, reflecting the growing trend of cafes and restaurants across ASEAN integrating bar style beverage offerings like craft cocktails, cold brew taps and mixology inspired presentations.

Featured manufacturers include Cimbali, Bravilor Bonamat, Melitta, Bunn O Matic, Mazzer, Nuova Ricambi, Fiamma, Barsetto, Moseener and Joper, alongside leading syrup and beverage brands such as DaVinci Gourmet, Monin, Shott Beverages, 1883 Maison Routin and Australian Fruit Juice.

Seminars at FHA 2026 sparked bold conversations that drive change in food and hospitality. The FHA Mainstage unites leaders to explore trends shaping Asia’s future, tackling consumer shifts, investment opportunities and innovations in food safety and health. The FutureFWD Seminar bridges hospitality, foodservice, retail and technology, focusing on digital innovation, sustainability and evolving consumer expectations. Aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals, the Sustainability Summit gathers innovators to turn ideas into action, from alternative proteins to low carbon hospitality.

New to FHA’s lineup this year is the Young Chefs Grand Prix, a premier competition for culinary talents aged 25 and under, featuring over 300 participants from more than 10 countries. This dynamic event tests creativity and adaptability through unique challenges like an ingredient sourcing relay and live cook off. A collaboration with the Singapore Chefs Association and Singapore Junior Chefs Club, and endorsed by Worldchefs, it joins existing popular events like the FHA Bakery Challenge, FHA Dessert Challenge and Asian Pastry Cup, delivering an exciting showcase of culinary excellence.

“FHA 2026 is not just an event. It is a celebration of the creativity, resilience and vision that define our industry. Let us make the most of this incredible platform to shape the future of food and hospitality.” Shared Ian Roberts, Senior Vice President for Asia at Informa Markets, the organiser for FHA.

FHA 2026 runs until 24 April at Singapore EXPO. For more information, visit the official website.