NDFC(I) announces the 2nd Edition of MEWA 2025, a three-day exhibition for Nuts and Dry Fruits

NDFC(I) announces the 2nd Edition of MEWA 2025, a three-day exhibition for Nuts and Dry Fruits

By Author

Published on January 23, 2025

The Nuts and Dry Fruits Council of India (NDFC[I]) proudly announces the 2nd edition of MEWA 2025, a groundbreaking three-day B2B exhibition dedicated to the nuts and dry fruits industry. Scheduled from February 12th to 14th, 2025, at the Jio Convention Center in Mumbai, this event promises to redefine the industry’s trajectory by fostering innovation, collaboration, and growth.

Key Highlights of MEWA 2025:

  • Over 300 exhibitors from 50+ countries, including major markets like the USA, Chile, Iran, Turkey, Oman, Saudi Arabia, and Australia.

  • Expansive exhibition space of 10,000+ square meters showcasing diverse offerings.

  • Focus on addressing key industry challenges and opportunities, particularly in the Indian market.

  • Projections of the dry fruits market reaching $12 billion by 2029, growing at a CAGR of 18%.

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Industry Insights 

Speaking at the press conference, Mr. Yash Gawdi, Co-Chairperson of MEWA 2025, highlighted the importance of the event, stating: “The dry fruits market is set to witness exponential growth, driven by increased consumer awareness and demand for health-conscious products. MEWA 2025 aims to tackle industry challenges, enhance visibility, and establish global partnerships.”

Mr. Gunjan Jain, President of NDFC(I), emphasized the need for focused efforts in streamlining the sector: “India is among the top 10 producers of walnuts, with Kerala and Karnataka leading in cashew production. However, issues like land fragmentation and high interest rates hinder large-scale farming. MEWA 2025 is a pivotal initiative to bring industry stakeholders together and address these challenges through innovation and collaboration.”

Building on the Success of the 1st Edition

The inaugural MEWA event in 2024 was a resounding success, attracting 6,000 visitors and featuring 130+ exhibitors from 20 countries. With an impressive 80% business conversion rate, MEWA 2024 set a high benchmark for trade and networking opportunities. The 2nd edition aims to elevate these achievements, offering an even more vibrant platform for showcasing products, sharing insights, and forging partnerships.

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Trends in Health-Conscious Consumption

Highlighting current consumer trends, Mr. Deepak Agarwal, Secretary of NDFC(I), remarked: “As 91% of Indians seek nutritious alternatives, the demand for nuts and dry fruits continues to surge. MEWA 2025 is designed to bridge gaps in the industry, addressing consumer needs with innovative and sustainable solutions.”

To promote health-conscious choices, MEWA 2025 will collaborate with Indian cricketers and Bollywood stars to endorse the benefits of nuts and dry fruits, aiming to inspire younger generations toward healthier lifestyles.

Industry Initiatives and Future Outlook

MEWA 2025 will also focus on sustainability and production enhancement. Key initiatives include:

  • Walnut plantation drives in Chakrata, Uttarakhand.

  • Collaboration with AICA to sign an MOU for cashew plantation and plant distribution.

  • Strategies to boost international participation and streamline industry practices.

NDFC(I) remains committed to unifying the sector and providing a robust platform for growth, innovation, and sustainability. “The goal is not only to elevate the industry but also to celebrate the diversity and richness of nuts, dates, and dry fruits in India,” added Mr. Jain.

About MEWA 2025

Website: https://mewaindia.in/

MEWA 2025 is an international platform spotlighting the latest advancements in research, innovation, production, trade, and consumption within the nuts and dry fruits sector. With participants from 50+ countries, 300+ exhibitors, and 10,000+ attendees, MEWA 2025 promises to be the premier showcase of the industry’s finest offerings.

About NDFC(I)

Website: https://ndfci.org/

The Nuts and Dry Fruits Council of India (NDFC[I]) serves as the unified voice for stakeholders across the nuts, dry fruits, seeds, raisins, berries, and dates industries in India. From growers to processors and distributors, NDFC(I) fosters unity and collaboration to drive progress and innovation.

Join us at MEWA 2025 to be part of this transformative journey, shaping the future of the nuts and dry fruits industry while celebrating its vibrant heritage.


Chinese Wok Opens First Outlet in Calicut, Expands South India Network to 90 Stores

Chinese Wok Opens First Outlet in Calicut, Expands South India Network to 90 Stores

By Hariharan U

Published on July 13, 2026

Chinese Wok, the flagship Desi Chinese quick service restaurant (QSR) brand from Lenexis Foodworks, has expanded its presence in Kerala with the launch of its first outlet in Calicut. Located at Lulu Mall, the new restaurant marks the brand's entry into one of Kerala's fastest-growing food markets while taking its Kerala footprint to 10 outlets and its South India network to 90 stores.

The expansion forms part of Chinese Wok's strategy to strengthen its presence across high-potential Tier-II cities. Calicut's growing base of local consumers, students, working professionals, and GCC travellers, coupled with rising disposable incomes and an increasing appetite for organised dining, makes the city a strategic market for the brand.

Situated within Lulu Mall, one of Calicut's leading retail destinations, the outlet has been designed to serve shoppers, families, students, and young professionals through a convenient dine-in and takeaway format. Customers can enjoy the brand's signature menu featuring Hakka Noodles, Schezwan Noodles, Momos, Fries, and value-driven combo meals.

Commenting on the launch, Arvind R P, Chief Executive Officer, Lenexis Foodworks, said Calicut represents an important milestone in the company's South India growth strategy. He noted that the city's vibrant food culture and demand for quality, affordable meals make it an ideal market for Chinese Wok, adding that the brand remains committed to democratising Desi Chinese cuisine through a disciplined and scalable expansion approach.

The new outlet will offer dine-in, takeaway, and home delivery services, extending Chinese Wok's signature combination of flavour, affordability, and convenience to consumers in Calicut.

Founded in 2015, Chinese Wok has grown into India's largest Desi Chinese QSR brand with a network of more than 270 outlets across over 50 cities. Operated by Lenexis Foodworks, the company also manages The Momo Co. and Big Bowl as part of its expanding portfolio of quick-service restaurant brands


Farzi Café Cyberhub Celebrates World Rum Day with 'Dear Delhi' Cocktail

Farzi Café Cyberhub Celebrates World Rum Day with 'Dear Delhi' Cocktail

By Hariharan U

Published on July 13, 2026

Ahead of World Rum Day on 11 July, Farzi Café Cyberhub is celebrating the occasion with the launch of 'Dear Delhi', a signature cocktail that pays tribute to the capital through locally inspired flavours and contemporary mixology.

Part of the restaurant's Heritage Greens cocktail collection, Dear Delhi draws inspiration from the lush landscapes of Delhi's historic Sunder Nursery, reimagining the city's green spaces through an innovative rum-based creation.

Moving beyond conventional tropical rum cocktails, the drink features a distinctive cream cheese-infused rum base layered with sweet strawberry, almond, fresh basil and a touch of citrus. The cocktail is then clarified using a coconut milk wash, resulting in a crystal-clear, silky-smooth punch that balances richness with freshness.

Designed to reflect both nostalgia and innovation, Dear Delhi showcases Farzi Café's approach to modern Indian mixology by combining unconventional techniques with flavours rooted in local identity.

Priced at ₹650, the cocktail is available exclusively at Farzi Café, Cyberhub, offering guests a unique way to celebrate World Rum Day through a drink inspired by one of Delhi's most iconic landmarks


The Leela Gandhinagar Celebrates the Monsoon with Seasonal Delights at Citrus Junction

The Leela Gandhinagar Celebrates the Monsoon with Seasonal Delights at Citrus Junction

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on July 13, 2026

The Leela Gandhinagar is celebrating the arrival of the rainy season with Monsoon Delights, a specially curated weekend dining experience at Citrus Junction, beginning July 10, 2026 and available across all weekends in July.

Inspired by the comforting flavours that define the monsoon, the seasonal menu brings together popular regional favourites from across India. Guests can savour steaming bowls of thukpa, Bombay toasties, stuffed chillas, vada pav, and a variety of seasonal delicacies that are often enjoyed during the rains.

Adding to the experience are interactive live culinary stations where dishes are prepared fresh, along with aromatic cups of tea and indulgent desserts that perfectly complement the monsoon mood.

Set within the elegant interiors of Citrus Junction, inspired by the timeless charm of luxury rail travel, the experience offers more than just a meal. It creates a cosy setting where guests can slow down, enjoy comforting food, and spend quality time with family and friends while watching the monsoon unfold.

Speaking about the seasonal offering, Vikas Sood, General Manager, The Leela Gandhinagar, said:

"Every season brings with it flavours and traditions that evoke a sense of place and belonging, and the monsoon is perhaps the most nostalgic of them all. With 'Monsoon Delights', we wanted to celebrate those familiar moments that many of us associate with the rains sharing comforting food, enjoying time with loved ones, and creating memories around the table. It is our way of bringing the warmth of the season to our guests through an experience that is comforting."

Blending regional culinary traditions with The Leela's signature hospitality, Monsoon Delights promises a warm and memorable dining experience, celebrating the simple pleasures of the rainy season through comforting food and shared moments.

Event Details

  • Event: Monsoon Delights.

  • Venue: Citrus Junction, The Leela Gandhinagar.

  • Dates: Every weekend in July from July 10, 2026.

  • Experience: Seasonal monsoon menu with live culinary stations.

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