PLASTINDIA 2026, one of the world’s largest and most influential plastics exhibitions, is underway at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, bringing global attention to India’s growing leadership in manufacturing, sustainability, and industrial innovation. The six-day event, which began on February 5 and will conclude on February 10, has emerged as a key platform showcasing how the plastics sector can support India’s journey towards a Viksit Bharat.
Organised with the support of the Department of Chemicals and Petrochemicals, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, and the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, PLASTINDIA 2026 has drawn industry leaders, policymakers, global exhibitors, innovators, and start-ups under one roof. The exhibition underlines the strategic importance of the plastics industry, a critical contributor to India’s economy and global supply chains.
Step into the future of global manufacturing at Bharat Mandapam. This isn’t just an exhibition—it’s the heartbeat of an industry driving India toward a $10 trillion economy.
The future is being built right here .#PLASTINDIA2026 #BharatNext #ViksitBharat pic.twitter.com/vIVnjnHPpl
— Pif Plastindia (@Pif_PLASTINDIA) February 8, 2026
Bharat Next: Building a Self-Reliant Industrial Ecosystem
The theme of PLASTINDIA 2026, “Bharat Next”, closely aligns with the national vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat and Viksit Bharat articulated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The exhibition focuses on strengthening a self-reliant industrial ecosystem capable of driving manufacturing-led growth, boosting exports, and generating large-scale employment.
The vision of Bharat Next is built on four foundational pillars — Men, Material, Machine, and Markets — supported by five strategic enablers: Trade, Technology, Talent, Tradition, and Tourism. Together, these elements highlight India’s readiness to emerge as a global manufacturing and innovation hub.
Global Participation and Sustainability at the Core
PLASTINDIA 2026 features more than 2,000 exhibitors from across the world, showcasing advanced plastics machinery, high-performance raw materials, and next-generation solutions focused on circularity and reduced environmental impact.
A defining feature of this edition is its status as a Zero Waste exhibition — a first for PLASTINDIA. All solid waste generated during the event is being segregated, recycled, and reused, ensuring that nothing is sent to landfills. This initiative reflects the industry’s increasing commitment to sustainable practices and responsible resource management.
Empowering Youth, Start-Ups, and Innovators
Recognising the role of young innovators in shaping the future of manufacturing, the exhibition has dedicated space for start-ups, entrepreneurs, and students. These platforms allow emerging talent to present sustainable plastic solutions, new processing technologies, and innovative applications, reinforcing the sector’s shift towards environmentally responsible growth.
Knowledge Sharing and Special Exhibits
PLASTINDIA 2026 also features a special museum that demonstrates the versatility and importance of plastics in everyday life and critical infrastructure. Exhibits showcase applications across key sectors including agriculture, healthcare, water management, mobility, and transportation. The focus remains on responsible use, innovation, and lifecycle management of plastics rather than misuse.
The event serves as a knowledge-sharing hub, encouraging dialogue between policymakers, global manufacturers, and Indian industry leaders on technology adoption, sustainability, and global competitiveness.
Industry Voices and Global Collaboration
Speaking to Akashvani News, Xiuhuan Su, Director of Commercial Brand Marketing at ExxonMobil, said the company is showcasing advanced chemical and lubrication solutions at the exhibition. She added that ExxonMobil is collaborating with several original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) during the event, highlighting the role of global partnerships in strengthening India’s industrial capabilities.
Economic Importance of the Plastics Sector
India’s plastics industry is currently valued at around ₹3–3.5 lakh crore and is poised for strong growth. As India works towards becoming a USD 10 trillion economy, the sector is expected to play a pivotal role in infrastructure development, consumer manufacturing, and deeper integration with global supply chains.
PLASTINDIA 2026 reflects how policy support, industry innovation, and sustainability-driven manufacturing can together power economic growth. By aligning industrial progress with environmental responsibility, the exhibition reinforces India’s roadmap towards becoming a developed and globally competitive economy.
As the event progresses, PLASTINDIA 2026 continues to position India not just as a manufacturing destination, but as a global leader in sustainable industrial transformation — a cornerstone of the Viksit Bharat vision.