The ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) will host 7th India International Seaweed Expo and Summit 2026 (IISE&S 2026), one of the largest seaweed industry gatherings, on 29-30 in January next year. The event will be organised by the Indian Chamber of Commerce (ICC), CMFRI and CSIR-Central Salt Marine Chemicals Research Institute (CSMCRI).

The Expo is expected to draw participation from Brazil, Sri Lanka, the Netherlands, Sweden, and several other countries, making it a crucial globally diverse platform for exploring the prospects of the marine algae. Delegates from Latin America, South Asia, and Europe have already confirmed interest, offering opportunities for cross-border partnerships, technology transfer, and international market linkages.

National Roadmap

A major highlight will be the ‘Seaweed 2030’ panel, which will outline a national roadmap to accelerate India’s rise as a global leader in sustainable seaweed production and high-value product manufacturing.

The event will bring together policymakers, industry leaders, scientific community, international investors, start-ups and innovators.

Technical Sessions

In addition to exhibition, the event will feature technical sessions on harnessing the power of seaweed, government policy and regulatory framework; financing and market development; supply chain; and bioprospecting, biotechnology and product development. The deliberations will focus on expanding India’s seaweed value chain, strengthening coastal livelihoods, and advancing the country’s Blue Economy goals.

“With 11,000+ km of coastline and vast marine biodiversity, India is increasingly viewed as a future hub for seaweed farming, processing, and biotechnology”, said Dr Grinson George, Director of CMFRI.

Dr Rajeev Singh, Director General of Indian Chamber of Commerce said: “The event is expected to catalyse new investments, support R&D collaborations, and boost India’s export capacity for high-value seaweed derivatives”.