IAAPI Amusement Expo 2026 Opens in Mumbai, Showcasing the Future of India’s Amusement Industry

Mumbai, March 2026: The Indian Association of Amusement Parks and Industries (IAAPI) today inaugurated the 24th edition of the IAAPI Amusement Expo 2026 at the Bombay Exhibition Centre (BEC), Goregaon, Mumbai, bringing together global leaders, innovators, investors, and industry stakeholders from across the amusement and attractions ecosystem. The three-day expo, running from 10th to 12th March 2026, marks the opening of one of Asia’s biggest and most significant platforms for showcasing next-generation attractions, technologies, and investment opportunities in the leisure and entertainment sector.

Recognised as India’s premier B2B exhibition for the amusement, leisure, and entertainment industry, the expo has witnessed strong participation this year with over 210 exhibitors from 15 countries presenting a wide range of innovations across amusement rides, water park attractions, arcade solutions, virtual reality experiences, and immersive digital technologies. The 24th edition has also recorded a 30% increase in exhibitor participation, reflecting the growing momentum and confidence within the industry.

Adding a vibrant and engaging element to the event this year is “Gaja,” the official mascot of IAAPI Amusement Expo 2026, unveiled during the inauguration. Inspired by the strength and joy associated with elephants, Gaja symbolises fun, excitement, and the spirit of the amusement industry, while welcoming visitors and participants throughout the expo.

Industry leaders at the inauguration highlighted the strong growth trajectory of India’s amusement and attractions sector. The industry is currently expanding at an annual growth rate of nearly 15% and is projected to reach ₹25,000 crores by 2030, driven by rising demand for experiential entertainment, increasing urbanisation, and greater investment in tourism infrastructure.

The expo has brought together investors, developers, amusement park operators, mall developers, hospitality groups, and tourism stakeholders exploring opportunities across theme parks, indoor entertainment centres, water parks, adventure attractions, and destination-led recreational developments.

Speaking at the inauguration, Shri Kandula Durgesh, Hon. Minister of Tourism and Culture and Cinematography, Government of Andhra Pradesh, said,
“I congratulate IAAPI for organising this landmark Expo, as India’s amusement sector is soaring at a 15% annual rate, projected to reach ₹25,000 crores by 2030. The 24th IAAPI Expo is attracting 12,000 visitors, making it one of the largest amusement industry expos in Asia. Andhra Pradesh is leading this charge. Under our Swarna Andhra Tourism Vision 2047 and supported by the AP Tourism Policy 2024-29 Policy, we offer industry status, 25% capital subsidies, and 100% SGST reimbursement. Last year alone, we secured ₹18,848 crores in investment through 102 MoUs. From the greenfields of Amaravati to the coasts of Visakhapatnam, together with industry partners like IAAPI, we look forward to building the next generation of world-class entertainment destinations in India.”

The minister also highlighted that Andhra Pradesh has emerged as a prime destination for amusement park investments, supported by strong infrastructure and investor-friendly policies. The state alone has attracted ₹18,004 crores in tourism investments over the last year, creating opportunities for both large-scale amusement destinations and smaller entertainment parks across emerging tourism hubs.

Highlighting the industry’s growth and future roadmap, Ankur Maheshwari, Chairman, IAAPI, said,
“India’s amusement industry is entering its strongest phase yet. With membership hitting a record of 700+ and the IAAPI Expo growing 30% this year and a projected 40% in the next year, it’s clear there is no digital alternative to the thrill of a park, as the physical experience is irreplaceable. As we host 210+ exhibitors across VR, water parks, and immersive tech, IAAPI remains committed to global safety standards and domestic manufacturing. We are building a roadmap for India to become a global hub for attractions and amusement tourism, as it is the future of Indian travel & tourism.”

A key highlight of the event was the launch of the IAAPI Safety Handbook, an important industry initiative aimed at strengthening safety practices and operational benchmarks across amusement parks and entertainment centres in India. The handbook underscores the sector’s growing focus on global safety standards, responsible operations, and policy advocacy to ensure sustainable growth of the industry.

Alongside the exhibition, the event is also hosting knowledge and networking platforms designed to encourage industry collaboration and knowledge exchange.

IAC Connect (Conference) is bringing together industry leaders, investors, and technology innovators to discuss emerging technologies, evolving consumer behaviour, and strategies to enhance visitor experiences in amusement parks and attractions.

The Safety Conclave is focusing on strengthening operational safety and risk management standards across amusement parks and indoor entertainment centres, with global experts sharing insights on safety protocols, regulatory frameworks, and best practices.

As the industry continues to expand, the IAAPI Amusement Expo 2026 is expected to play a key role in enabling partnerships, encouraging investments, and positioning India as a rapidly emerging global hub for amusement and attraction-led tourism.

About IAAPI

Founded in 1999, the Indian Association of Amusement Parks and Industries (IAAPI) is an apex, non-government, not-for-profit body representing the interests of Amusement Parks, Theme Parks, Water Parks, and Indoor Amusement Centres in India. With over 650 members from the private sector—ranging from SME park operators to global equipment manufacturers—IAAPI plays a proactive role in the development of the sector and is recognised by various international trade bodies operating in the amusement industry.