Polski
English
Русский
Fruit Attraction 2026 opens in Madrid with a focus on AI, biotechnology and sustainable production
Fruit Attraction 2026 opens in Madrid with a focus on AI, biotechnology and sustainable production
The 18th edition of Fruit Attraction, one of the world’s leading international events for the fruit and vegetable industry, opened at IFEMA MADRID on 6 October. The first day’s programme focuses on production automation, artificial intelligence, biotechnology, regenerative agriculture, cold-chain logistics and the sector’s resilience to climate change.
This year’s Fruit Attraction takes place from 6 to 8 October 2026. According to the organisers, the event brings together 2,500 exhibitors from 78 countries and occupies 162,000 m² across ten exhibition halls. Around 121,000 trade professionals from more than 150 countries are expected to attend.
The official opening ceremony was scheduled for 10:30 am in the Fruit Next 5 area in Hall 5. The extensive programme of events demonstrates that Fruit Attraction is not only a commercial platform, but also an important forum for discussing the technological and environmental transformation of the entire sector.
Responsible supply chains, automation and decarbonisation
In Hall 3, the Fruit Forum by Timac Agro opened with discussions on global supply chains. Representatives of FMB and FAO addressed the inclusion of smallholder producers in banana value chains, while WWF focused on strengthening responsible and transparent supply chains.
The programme also included sessions on the automation of field operations and practical examples from companies implementing decarbonisation strategies. The discussions explored how mechanisation, digitalisation and emission reduction can improve the economic efficiency of agricultural production.
Regenerative agriculture, data and biostimulants
One of the key events in Hall 4 is the BIOFRUIT CONGRESS. During the first day, experts are analysing the potential of regenerative organic agriculture and presenting practical examples of its implementation. The discussions cover soil fertility restoration, biodiversity, water management and reducing dependence on external agricultural inputs.
The same stage hosts a presentation of the fourth edition of Fruit Attraction São Paulo 2027, which will take place in Brazil from 6 to 8 April 2027. The session is intended to introduce companies to development and business opportunities in Latin American markets.
The programme also features a presentation of statistical data from the Spanish Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, a case study on TGF’s use of artificial intelligence to manage loads, and a session by Kelp Blue on seaweed-based biostimulants.
Biotechnology and new plant-breeding methods
Hall 5 is hosting discussions on the future of plant breeding, crop protection and product quality. The BIOTECH Forum addresses the detection and prevention of emerging threats, as well as methods of adding value to fruit and vegetable production.
New genomic techniques, or NGTs, and their place within the developing European Union regulatory framework are also important parts of the programme. Experts are examining how new breeding methods can accelerate the development of varieties resistant to disease, water stress and high temperatures while reducing the use of plant protection products.
Additional presentations focus on genomics, artificial intelligence and gene editing in the development of varieties with desirable commercial and agronomic characteristics, as well as the role of science in building a sustainable bioeconomy.
AI in transport, cold-chain logistics and the circular economy
In Hall 10, attention is focused on solutions supporting production, logistics and crop protection. Sessions examine whether microorganisms can replace conventional agricultural inputs, the importance of the global cold chain and the impact of artificial intelligence on fruit and vegetable transport.
Further presentations cover the REALM project, which applies circular economy principles to tomato cultivation, nanotechnology-based anti-stress programmes, and forecasting systems supporting integrated pest management.
Climate resilience and rising production costs
The programme in Hall 12 focuses on product diversification, biosecurity and risk management. Experts are analysing the potential of avocados not only on the fresh produce market, but also as frozen products and raw material for oil production.
The agenda also includes a presentation on ozone, biosecurity and the measurable profitability of new technologies, as well as a panel devoted to climate resilience.
The situation in the banana sector occupies a particularly important place in the programme. Rising production costs, climate-related threats, diseases, logistics pressures and the need to provide producers with fair prices are being discussed during two afternoon sessions featuring representatives of CLAC Fairtrade.
Innovation, organic production and gastronomy
In addition to the conference programme, participants can visit the Innovation Hub, located between Halls 5 and 7. The area showcases new products and technologies in the Fresh Produce, F&V Industry, and Sustainability and Commitment Actions categories.
The specially marked Organic Tour guides visitors to exhibitors offering certified organic products. The route facilitates contact with producers and suppliers operating in the growing organic food market.
Hall 7 also hosts Factoría Chef, where live cooking demonstrations highlight the culinary potential of fresh fruit and vegetables. Visitors can also vote for their favourite exhibition spaces as part of the Best Stand Awards.
The first day of Fruit Attraction 2026 clearly reflects the industry’s principal development priorities: the digitalisation of production and logistics, the increased use of biological solutions in agriculture, the development of varieties resistant to climate stress, and the creation of more transparent and responsible supply chains.
Practical information: Fruit Attraction takes place from 6 to 8 October 2026 at IFEMA MADRID. The event is open to trade professionals from 9:30 am to 7:00 pm on the first two days and from 9:30 am to 4:00 pm on 8 October. Visitors are advised to consult the exhibitor catalogue, interactive map and full programme of events before arriving.
Source: Fruit Attraction, IFEMA MADRID, Fruit Attraction 2026 programme.
Read more:
Interpoma 2026 Presents the Orchard of the Future: Drones, Sensors and UV-C Technology
Second Day of Fruit Attraction 2026: Business, Innovation and Industry Knowledge
Balkan Expo 2027 in Sarajevo – a business meeting point for the food and agriculture sectors
