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.


When Chocolate Becomes a Love Letter: BELAGIO Unveils Its Valentine’s

When Chocolate Becomes a Love Letter: BELAGIO Unveils Its Valentine’s

By Hariharan U

Published on February 1, 2026

This Valentine’s Day, BELAGIO is redefining romance with chocolate that speaks straight to the heart. Introducing the Hearts & Roses Collection, a limited-edition Valentine’s special where love is baked, sculpted and savoured, transforming classic symbols of romance into elegant dessert creations.

Known for its emotion-driven craftsmanship and refined aesthetic, BELAGIO brings together flavour, form and feeling in a collection designed to delight not just the palate, but the senses. Each dessert is crafted as a love letter in chocolate, turning familiar Valentine motifs into luxurious, share-worthy indulgences.

At the heart of the collection is the Choco Berry Heart, a striking heart-shaped creation layered with dark chocolate mousse, tangy berry compote and almond chocolate sponge. Finished with a radiant red glaze and delicate gold accents, the dessert balances richness with brightness, offering a bold yet romantic expression of flavour.

Equally aptivating is the Chocolate Truffle Rose, a chocolate truffle cake crowned with a meticulously hand-crafted chocolate rose. Designed as a modern tribute to Valentine’s flowers, the edible rose adds both visual drama and sentimental charm, making it as memorable to gift as it is to savour.

Every dessert in the Hearts & Roses Collection is created as a thoughtful conversation between texture, taste and emotion. Whether shared between couples, friends, or enjoyed as a personal indulgence, the collection celebrates love in all its forms.

Available in limited quantities, BELAGIO’s Valentine’s special transforms everyday moments into romantic celebrations, offering chocolate that doesn’t just taste indulgent, but feels meaningful.


Cristal Azul Tequila Launches in Goa, Expands Premium Footprint Across India

Cristal Azul Tequila Launches in Goa, Expands Premium Footprint Across India

By Author

Published on January 31, 2026

Globally recognised premium tequila brand Cristal Azul has officially launched in Goa, marking the next phase of its India journey after a successful debut in Mumbai. The expansion signals the brand’s growing focus on India’s evolving premium spirits landscape, with plans already underway to enter key markets such as Delhi and Bengaluru.

Produced in Mexico and refined in New York, Cristal Azul follows traditional tequila-making methods while embracing contemporary craftsmanship. Made exclusively from 100% Blue Weber Agave sourced from the agave-rich soils of Jalisco, the tequila is known for its smoothness, balance, and consistency. Each bottle reflects a blend of heritage and modern sensibility, catering to today’s discerning consumers seeking refined sipping experiences.

Cristal Azul’s portfolio includes a range of internationally recognised expressions, including Añejo and Reposado, along with Extra Añejo, Blanco, Gold, and Silver. Designed for both neat sipping and modern cocktail culture, the range offers versatility across elevated social occasions and premium hospitality settings.

The brand’s arrival in Goa aligns naturally with the state’s vibrant hospitality ecosystem and premium lifestyle culture. As tequila continues to gain popularity among affluent Gen Z and Gen X consumers, alongside seasoned whisky drinkers exploring new categories, Cristal Azul positions itself as a natural choice for those seeking depth, elegance, and contemporary appeal.

Now available across select premium retail outlets, upscale bars, and leading hospitality destinations in Goa, Cristal Azul aims to elevate beachside gatherings, sunset rituals, and sophisticated nightlife experiences. Each expression is crafted to be enjoyed neat, over ice, or paired with curated culinary offerings.

With launches underway in Mumbai and Goa and further expansion planned across major Indian cities, Cristal Azul continues to strengthen its pan-India footprint. Blending global pedigree with meticulous craftsmanship, the brand invites Indian consumers to discover a new chapter in premium tequila culture, where every sip becomes an occasion.


Spice Traders at W Goa Reimagines Chinese Cuisine with a Modern, Intuitive Lens

Spice Traders at W Goa Reimagines Chinese Cuisine with a Modern, Intuitive Lens

By Hariharan U

Published on January 31, 2026

Spice Traders at W Goa is charting a new course for Chinese cuisine, offering a refined, contemporary interpretation rooted in philosophy rather than replication. Moving away from overt nostalgia or trend-driven reinvention, the restaurant’s refreshed culinary direction focuses on restraint, balance and instinctive flavour-building, quietly bridging the gap between tradition and modernity.

Inspired by the philosophies of China’s Eight Great Cuisines, the approach at Spice Traders does not attempt to recreate regional dishes in their original form. Instead, the kitchen, led by Chef Avinash, studies the thinking behind them. The emphasis lies on understanding how heat is layered rather than imposed, how fermentation creates depth without heaviness, and how contrast, rather than excess, brings harmony to a dish.

These principles form the foundation of a menu that feels contemporary and relevant while staying deeply connected to the soul of Chinese cooking. Techniques and ingredients are used with intent, allowing flavours to unfold naturally and with clarity, rather than overwhelming the palate. The result is food that feels confident, edited and quietly expressive.

Central to this evolution is Spice Traders’ BA philosophy, which celebrates the space between opposites. Tradition meets modernity, fire balances freshness, and comfort coexists with curiosity. Each dish is designed to live in this in-between space, reflecting a thoughtful equilibrium that defines the restaurant’s culinary identity.

With this renewed direction, Spice Traders at W Goa continues to honour one of the world’s most storied culinary traditions, while presenting it through a lens that resonates with today’s diners. The experience is less about spectacle and more about intuition, offering a modern Chinese dining journey that feels both familiar and forward-looking.

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