Published On: 27 February 2025
The 23rd IAAPI Expo 2025 concluded on an unprecedented high, marking a new era of growth for the amusement, leisure, and entertainment industry in India. Held at NESCO, Mumbai, the Expo saw a record-breaking number of visitors, a 28% increase in exhibition space, and participation from exhibitors representing over 20 countries, making it the most internationally diverse IAAPI Expo to date. This overwhelming response reaffirmed the Expo’s reputation as a premier global platform for networking, collaboration, and business growth.
For the first time in IAAPI’s history, the event was graced by Hon’ble Tourism and Cultural Minister, Sh. Gajendra Shekhawat Ji, further solidifying the amusement industry’s recognition within India’s tourism ecosystem. His visit to the Expo and participation in the IAAPI Awards Night highlighted the sector’s potential in boosting experiential and religious tourism, promising greater government support and policy collaboration to elevate India’s status as a leading amusement hub.
"The amusement industry is a key driver of tourism, and India has the potential to become a global leader in this sector. The government will work closely with stakeholders to support its growth and strengthen its role in boosting tourism and the economy," said Sh. Gajendra Shekhawat Ji.
Exhibitors reported an exceptional response, securing high-value B2B leads and witnessing strong interest from international buyers, investors, and stakeholders, paving the way for cross-border collaborations.
The Expo also featured IAC Connect, which saw an impressive 125 participants, a 40% increase from last year, making it one of the most engaging knowledge-sharing sessions yet. The panel discussions were highly insightful, addressing key industry trends, challenges, and innovations, further establishing IAAPI as a thought leader in the global amusement sector.
Adding to the grandeur was the IAAPI Awards Night, which set a new record with over 100 nominations, the highest in IAAPI’s history. The awards celebrated excellence, innovation, and leadership in the amusement sector, recognizing the best performers across theme parks, water parks, indoor entertainment centers, and industry suppliers.
During the Expo, IAAPI also announced its new office bearers for 2025-26, with Mr. Ankur Maheshwary as Chairman, Mr. Prashant Kanoria as 1st Vice Chairman, and Mr. Maneesh Verma as 2nd Vice Chairman. As IAAPI transitions to new leadership, it builds upon the strong foundation laid by Mr. Shrikant Goenka, whose tenure saw unprecedented advancements in branding, policy advocacy, and business outreach.
"This Expo has been a game-changer for IAAPI, breaking records in participation, business leads, and global recognition. The future looks bright for the Indian amusement industry," said Mr. Shrikant Goenka.
With record-breaking participation, exceptional business outcomes, and growing international recognition, the IAAPI Expo 2025 has set a new benchmark for the industry’s future. As IAAPI continues its journey under new leadership, the success of this Expo will fuel greater innovations, strategic collaborations, and expansion, further strengthening India’s position as a global leader in the amusement and entertainment sector.
.jpeg)
.jpg)
