The global food industry is undergoing a major transformation as sustainability becomes a central focus of business strategy. Attending an eco-friendly food packaging exhibition has become one of the best ways for brands to explore new sustainable materials, meet certified suppliers, and stay ahead of industry trends. From coffee chains to ready-meal companies, businesses are rethinking how packaging choices impact both the environment and brand value.
For forward-thinking food brands, these exhibitions are more than networking opportunities—they are where innovation meets impact. Attending them allows you to explore groundbreaking materials, learn from sustainability leaders, and identify future market trends.
To help your brand make smarter sourcing decisions, we’ve compiled the Top 10 Eco-Friendly Food Packaging Exhibitions around the world—essential destinations for discovering innovative products, meeting trusted suppliers, and gaining practical insights into sustainable operations.
Why Host an Eco‑Friendly Food Packaging Exhibition?
- To Showcase Innovative Materials & Technologies
Traditional packaging materials (like petrochemical plastics) often struggle in biodegradability or recyclability. An eco‑friendly packaging exhibition allows new materials (PLA, PHA, mushroom‑based substrates, seaweed packaging, etc.) and technologies (edible packaging, active packaging, smart sensors, etc.) to be featured in one place. - To Connect the Entire Value Chain
Food brands, packaging manufacturers, raw material suppliers, equipment vendors, testing labs, regulatory bodies, and NGOs can come together to form a more integrated “from raw material to recycling” green ecosystem. - To Accelerate Standards and Policy Adoption
Exhibitions often accompany forums, panels, and roundtables, bringing regulators, industry associations, and advocacy groups together to discuss regulations, certification, and sustainable development metrics—bridging innovation with governance. - For Brand Exposure and Market Validation
For food firms aiming to build a green brand image, launching or presenting sustainable packaging at such events is a way to signal responsibility. The exhibition setting also allows for real‑time feedback from buyers, media, and consumers—validating technical feasibility. - Trend Watching & Competitive Intelligence
Exhibitions give companies the chance to spot emerging trends, new products from competitors, changing demand patterns, and strategic pivots—information essential for course corrections.
Key Trends in Eco-Friendly Food Packaging Exhibitions
Eco-friendly food packaging exhibitions reveal several dominant trends in 2025. These trends reflect a shift from token sustainability efforts to comprehensive, system-wide reform. One major trend is plastic elimination—not just reduction. Exhibitors now favor mono-material packaging that enhances recyclability and simplifies consumer disposal behavior.
Another strong trend is the integration of digital packaging solutions, such as QR codes that link to recycling guides or traceability reports. There’s also a noticeable move toward closed-loop systems, where packaging is returned, cleaned, and reused. Exhibitions also highlight the growing demand for minimalist design, reducing ink usage, adhesives, and unnecessary layers.
Let’s design packaging that stands out. Share your needs and get a custom solution crafted just for your products.
Top 10 Eco-Friendly Food Packaging Exhibition
In a world increasingly committed to sustainability and reducing plastic pollution, choosing environmentally friendly packaging for food products has become a central concern for both industry and consumers. The Eco‑Friendly Food Packaging Exhibition is born out of this momentum. By showcasing compostable materials, bio‑based packaging, reusable designs, and smart packaging technologies, these exhibitions serve not only as trend indicators in the industry but also as platforms for collaboration throughout the supply chain.
1. China Canton Fair
The Canton Fair (China Import and Export Fair) is China’s largest and longest‑running international trade fair, originally launched in 1957. Although the Canton Fair is a broad multi‑industry event rather than a packaging‑only expo, it often hosts dedicated segments or parallel exhibitions focused on packaging machinery, materials, and related solutions. For example, the China International Exhibition on Packaging Machinery & Materials is sometimes organized concurrently or as a “packaging pavilion” within or adjacent to the Canton Fair complex. Over the years, many packaging suppliers, especially those for food packaging, leverage the enormous buyer traffic at Canton Fair to showcase sustainable packaging options, bioplastic containers, barrier films, compostable pouches, and full packaging line solutions.
Location
The Canton Fair is held in Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China, at the China Import and Export Fair Complex (Pazhou Island, Yuejiang Zhong Road, No. 382). The complex is one of the world’s largest exhibition venues.
Duration / Frequency
The Canton Fair is held twice annually — in spring and autumn. Each session typically runs for multiple phases (commonly 3 phases, each lasting about 5 days) covering different product categories.
For example, the 138th Canton Fair autumn sessions are:
- Phase 1: October 15–19, 2025
- Phase 2: October 23–27, 2025
- Phase 3: October 31–November 4, 2025
Official Website: https://www.cantonfair.org.cn
Scale and Coverage
- The Canton Fair is enormous in scale, featuring tens of thousands of Chinese exporters across many categories.
- In the packaging domain, a dedicated version (China International Exhibition on Packaging Machinery & Materials) expects over 2,200 exhibitors and approximately 130,000 visitors.
- Its coverage spans domestic Chinese suppliers, international buyers (importers), and global trade — covering machinery, materials, containers, components, automation, and consumables.
- The Canton Fair’s pavilion system is highly international; it draws participants from over 160 countries.
Covered Domains / Fields
Within packaging and food‑adjacent industries, the fair’s coverage includes:
- Packaging machinery (filling, capping, sealing, wrapping).
- Packaging materials and raw materials (films, plastics, composites).
- Packaging containers, boxes, trays, etc.
- Automation, robotics, and industrial equipment integrated with packaging lines.
- Related supply services (logistics, inspection, labeling) via associated pavilions in the fair.
Our Participation – Million Pack
Million Pack has proudly participated in the Canton Fair for multiple editions, showcasing our latest innovations in eco-friendly food packaging. Our booth featured sustainable materials, biodegradable trays, and compostable packaging films, attracting buyers from across Asia, Europe, and North America. As one of the trusted exhibitors in the packaging sector, we engaged with numerous procurement teams and established valuable partnerships to expand our global footprint.
2. Australia Packaging Expo / Australia Packaging & Processing Exhibition (APPEX)
APPEX (Australasia’s Processing & Packaging Expo) is the leading trade show in Australia dedicated to the processing, packaging machinery, materials, and technology industries. It evolved from the legacy AUSPACK brand and now integrates packaging & processing into one major event. Its focus includes not just machinery and material suppliers but also sustainability themes, live demonstrations, education, and networking. It is designed for decision makers in food, beverage, dairy, bakery, consumer goods, pharma, and related verticals seeking to upgrade their production and packaging lines.
Location
The expo is held in Melbourne, Victoria, Australia, at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC).
Duration: The event typically runs over four days.
Official Website: https://www.appex.com.au/
Scale & Coverage / Reach
APPEX typically draws hundreds of exhibitors and thousands of trade visitors. For example, in promotional materials, APPEX 2027 is described as having “400+ exhibitors under one roof.” It also claims substantial buyer presence across vertical industries in food, beverage, pharma, household goods, etc. According to industry commentary, APPEX is expected to be Australia’s largest B2B show ever for the sector, with the widest range of machinery on the floor. Given Australia’s regional role, exhibitors often come from Asia, Oceania, Europe, and the Americas.
Covered Domains / Fields
- Processing Machinery
- Packaging Machinery
- Digital Printing & Labelling
- Ancillary Equipment
- Packaging & Materials
- IT & Services
- Robotics & Automation
- Logistics & Handling
Our Participation: Million Pack at Australia Packaging Expo
Million Pack participated in the Australia Packaging Expo to present our green packaging innovations to the Oceania market. We focused on compostable food trays, kraft-based wrappers, and zero-waste takeaway containers — all tailored to Australia’s rising eco-conscious consumer base. Engaging with distributors, hospitality brands, and health food companies, our team held product demos and shared our eco-manufacturing processes, leaving a strong impression among local buyers seeking sustainable alternatives.
3. Chile Packaging Expo (CirclePack / LatinPack Chile)
CirclePack is Chile’s principal packaging trade fair and one of the most important in South America for the packaging industry. It draws together domestic and regional packaging suppliers, machinery providers, raw material vendors, and downstream brand owners. The show is organized by Chilean packaging associations (such as CENEM) aiming to promote innovation, sustainability, and connectivity in the packaging ecosystem.In recent editions, CirclePack emphasizes new materials, recycling, eco-design, and regional supply chain development.
Location
CirclePack is held at Espacio Riesco, located in Santiago, Chile.
Duration / Frequency
- CirclePack is held annually (once per year).
- The typical duration is 3 days.
Official Info: https://circlepack-chile.com/
Scale and Coverage
- CirclePack is the only international packaging fair in Chile, thus carrying significant national prominence.
- In 2026, more than 75 companies from across the packaging value chain are expected to participate.
- The coverage is largely regional (Chile and Latin America) but also includes international exhibitors and pavilions.
- Its reach is primarily national/regional; while it is influential in Latin America, it is smaller in scale than global packaging expos.
Covered Segments / Fields
- Packaging materials & substrates.
- Packaging products.
- Converting & converting machinery.
- Printing & labeling technologies.
- Sustainable / eco‑friendly packaging.
- Packaging accessories, closures, coatings, adhesives, etc.
Our Participation: Million Pack at Chile Packaging Expo
At CirclePack Chile, Million Pack introduced Latin American buyers to our latest lines of biodegradable and recyclable packaging products. With growing demand in the region for food-safe, sustainable solutions, our presence provided local importers and food chains with access to bulk-supply options directly from our China-based factory. Our team highlighted supply chain efficiency, safety certifications, and export logistics tailored to the Southern Cone market.
4. France Packaging Exhibition — ALL4PACK Emballage Paris
ALL4PACK Emballage Paris (often shortened to ALL4PACK or All4Pack) is France’s flagship trade fair for packaging, processing, printing, and intralogistics. It is recognized across Europe as a major event for packaging innovation, sustainability, and circular economy solutions. The show particularly emphasizes eco‑design, circularity, and resource conservation. it dedicates special zones such as “Circularity Space” and “INNOVATIONS” to highlight sustainable packaging breakthroughs.
Location
The exhibition takes place at Paris Nord Villepinte (Parc des Expositions Paris‑Nord Villepinte), situated in the north of Paris, France.
Duration / Frequency
ALL4PACK is a biennial event (every two years). Usually lasts 4 days.
Official Info: https://news.all4pack.com/
Scale & Coverage / Reach
- The show typically attracts around 1,000+ exhibitors / brands and ~24,000 trade visitors for the 2026 edition.
- In past editions, for example 2024, the show had 1,100 exhibitors and nearly 50,000 professionals from 80 countries over 4 days.
- Approximately 51% of exhibitors and 32% of visitors came from outside France, indicating strong international pull.
- Exhibitor profiles are segmented: packaging & packing machines (~40 %), packaging & containers (~39 %), intralogistics / handling (~13 %), printing / finishing (~8 %) in 2026 expectations.
- The show’s subject coverage is very broad — not limited to just packaging, but inclusive of processing, printing, and intralogistics.
Fields / Covered Segments
- Packaging machinery & automation (fillers, sealers, wrapping, conveyors).
- Packaging materials (films, paper, corrugated, biopolymers, sustainable substrates).
- Containers, closures, caps, spouts, and packaging accessories.
- Printing, label technology, finishing, coatings.
- Intralogistics & handling (material flow, warehousing, conveyors, robotics).
- Innovation & sustainability zones: Circularity Space, eco‑design, life‑cycle assessments, reuse initiatives.
- Conferences, workshops, networking, business matching, job‑dating sessions
Our Participation: Million Pack at France Packaging Exhibition
Participating in the France Packaging Exhibition (ALL4PACK Paris) allowed Million Pack to showcase its premium packaging designs and eco-pack solutions to a European audience. Our emphasis on sustainable, aesthetically designed food packaging resonated well with French and EU buyers. The show offered an excellent platform to introduce our innovations aligned with EU sustainability directives, including plastic-free materials and circular economy packaging formats.
5. Mexico Packaging Expo (EXPO PACK México)
EXPO PACK México is one of Latin America’s premier packaging and processing trade shows. It is produced under the PMMI / PACK EXPO umbrella and draws suppliers, manufacturers, and buyers across the region. The event highlights not only traditional packaging machinery and materials, but also sustainable and green packaging innovations via special programs that spotlight biodegradable materials, recyclable solutions, and carbon‑reduction strategies.
Location
he expo is held at EXPO Santa Fe, located in Mexico City, Mexico.
Duration
EXPO PACK México typically runs for four days.
Official Website: https://www.expopackmexico.com.mx/
Scale and Coverage
- In past editions, the show has hosted over 700 world-class exhibitors, covering more than 20,000 net square meters of exhibition floor.
- It draws participants from across Latin America, North America, and global packaging/processing firms.
- It spans technology, materials, machinery, and adjacent services, making it a central hub for the region.
Covered Domains / Fields
- Packaging machinery (filling, sealing, wrapping, handling) .
- Packaging materials, containers, and substrates.
- Automation, control systems, robotics, software & IoT integration.
- Sustainability, eco‑packaging innovations, recycling, and circular solutions.
- Educational programs, keynotes, trend analysis, networking services.
Our Participation – Million Pack
Million Pack showcased its sustainable packaging portfolio at the Mexico International Packaging Exhibition, highlighting its manufacturing capabilities and low-cost, high-quality compostable packaging for the foodservice industry. From biodegradable cups to polylactic acid (PLA) plastic wrap, our products garnered significant interest from restaurant chains, supermarket buyers, and Latin American wholesalers. The exhibition also helped us secure new distribution partnerships in Mexico and Central America.
6. Russia Packaging Fair (UPAKEXPO / RosUpack)
RosUpack is Russia’s main international exhibition for packaging, processing machinery, materials and technologies. It brings domestic and international packaging suppliers together, with a growing focus on eco‑friendly packaging innovations, recyclable materials, and sustainability.
UPAKEXPO (sometimes stylized as Upakovka) is Russia’s premier international exhibition for packaging, printing, filling, and associated technologies. It aims to bring together manufacturers, packaging material suppliers, converters, and end‑users, especially from the food, pharmaceutical, cosmetics, and industrial sectors.
Location
These fairs are typically held in Moscow, Russia, often at major exhibition centers like Crocus Expo or Expocentre.
Duration / Frequency
- RosUpack is held annually (once per year).
- Upakovka likewise occurs annually.
- Each fair usually runs for 3–4 days.
Official Website
- UPAKEXPO: https://upakexpo.ru/
- RosUpack: https://rosupackexpo.com/
Scale and Coverage
- UPAKEXPO is a large event: in its 2025 edition, together with RUPLASTICA and Recycling Solutions, it reported over 1,000 companies and international participation from ~11 countries, plus ~33,000 specialists (visitors) in the cluster.
- The show’s coverage extends to Russia, CIS countries, Eastern Europe, and attracts exhibitors from both local and global markets.
- RosUpack brands itself as one of the largest in Eastern Europe, drawing international visitors and exhibitors across packaging & labeling sectors.
Covered Segments / Fields
- Packaging machinery & devices.
- Finished / ready packaging for food and non-food sectors.
- Labels, printing, labeling equipment.
- Packaging materials, substrates, and accessories.
- Machines for packaging production & packaging aids.
- Equipment for beverage, bakery, confectionery, pharmaceuticals.
- Automation, control systems, IoT components.
- Recycling / environmental technologies.
Our Participation: Million Pack at Russia Packaging Fair
As part of our global expansion strategy, Million Pack exhibited at the Russia Packaging Fair, where we displayed paper-based packaging solutions tailored for cold climates and long shelf-life foods. Visitors responded positively to our FSC-certified kraft containers and recyclable liners, ideal for food and retail brands in Russia and the CIS region. The show opened up opportunities for regional distribution and localized co-branding.
7. Indonesia Packaging Exhibition — ALLPACK Indonesia
ALLPACK Indonesia is the most prominent international exhibition in Indonesia focused on processing, packaging, automation, and material handling for key industries such as food & beverage, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics. Organized by Krista Exhibitions, the show provides a comprehensive platform for suppliers and buyers to meet, trade, and collaborate in Southeast Asia’s rapidly growing consumer market.
In recent years, ALLPACK has placed strong emphasis on eco-friendly packaging solutions, supporting Indonesia’s national goals for sustainability and waste reduction. Exhibitors showcase innovations in biodegradable materials, recyclable plastics, reusable containers, and energy-efficient machinery.
Location
The exhibition is held at JIExpo Kemayoran, Jakarta, Indonesia
Duration
ALLPACK Indonesia is held annually, Four full exhibition days.
Official Website: https://allpack-indonesia.com/
Scale & Coverage / Reach
- Over 1,500 companies are expected to exhibit in the 2025 edition, with participation from 30+ countries.
- The show anticipates 75,000+ professional visitors, including buyers, distributors, OEM manufacturers, and brand owners.
- The exhibition area spans 25,000+ square meters, featuring multiple product zones and international pavilions.
- It attracts professionals from across Southeast Asia, making it a key regional trade fair for the packaging and processing industries.
Fields / Covered Segments
- Packaging Machinery
- Packaging Materials
- Sustainable Packaging
- Processing Equipment
- Printing & Labeling
- Automation & Handling
- Inspection & Quality Control
8. Germany Interpack
Interpack is one of the world’s foremost trade fairs in the packaging and processing industry. It brings together the entire value chain — from packaging materials, machinery, components, to process technology and sustainability solutions. In recent editions, Interpack has placed increasing emphasis on eco‑friendly packaging, circular economy, resource optimization, and sustainable materials.
Location
It is held in Düsseldorf, Germany, at the Messe Düsseldorf exhibition grounds.
Duration
interpack is held on a triannual basis (every three years). Typically the fair spans 7 days.
Official Website: https://www.interpack.com/
Scale & Coverage
- In 2023 Interpack drew ~2,866 exhibitors from 55 countries and ~170,899 visitors from 169 countries.
- The exhibition area spans many halls (18 halls in past editions) and covers a large net exhibit space.
- It has a very high international footprint: ~74% of visitors and ~77% of exhibitors come from outside Germany.
- Interpack covers multiple sectors and offers a broad platform for global sourcing, innovation exchange, and networking.
Fields / Covered Segments
- Packaging machinery, equipment, and process technology.
- Packaging materials (films, foils, paper, composites).
- Auxiliary packaging components and supplies (closures, labels, accessories).
- Confectionery, bakery, food & beverage packaging systems.
9. PACK EXPO International
PACK EXPO International is one of the leading packaging & processing trade shows in North America. It is produced by PMMI (The Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies). The exhibition presents the latest in packaging machinery, materials, automation, and sustainable packaging innovations. The show attracts decision makers across diverse verticals looking for packaging solutions and technological advancements.
Location
The 2026 edition is scheduled for Chicago, Illinois, USA.
Duration
The 2026 edition runs from October 18 to October 21, 2026 (4 days)
Official Website: https://www.packexpointernational.com/
Scale & Coverage
- The 2026 show expects ~2,600 exhibitors.
- It anticipates ~48,000 attendees.
- Attendees span over 40 vertical industries, ranging from food & beverage to healthcare, personal care, consumer goods, etc.
Covered Segments
- Packaging machinery & processing equipment.
- Packaging materials & containers.
- Automation, controls, components.
- Food & beverage processing equipment.
- Packaging services & supplies.
- Life sciences / healthcare packaging.
- Printing, labeling, and traceability technologies.
10. CFPF (Shanghai International Food Packaging Exhibition)
CFPF (China Food Packaging Fair, often titled “Shanghai International Food Packaging Exhibition”) is a specialized trade show focused on food packaging technologies in China. It draws packaging material suppliers, machinery providers, converters, and brands that specifically serve the food & beverage sector. The fair emphasizes innovations in sustainable material, barrier films, smart packaging, printed packaging solutions and machinery tailored for food.
Location
The event is held at Shanghai World Expo Exhibition and Convention Center, located in Pudong, Shanghai, China.
Official Website: https://www.cfpf.cn/
Scale and Coverage
- In recent editions, the show hosts 100–500 exhibitors (depending on scale) and draws ~20,000 visitors (estimate) from both domestic and international markets.
- The fair’s coverage is more regional (China / East Asia) but with increasing international participation.
- Because of its niche focus on food packaging, it draws more specialized buyers interested in food-grade materials and solutions.
Covered Domains / Fields
- Food packaging machinery.
- Food‑grade packaging materials & substrates.
- Labeling, printing, coding, traceability.
- Food safety, packaging preservation & barrier technologies.
- Sustainable/eco packaging for food.
Exhibitor & Visitor Guide
Tips for Exhibitors
- Highlight Sustainability Value + Technical Strengths
Emphasize key performance metrics such as biodegradability, recyclability rates, lifecycle costs, and certification standards in your booth materials, presentation slides, and product samples. - Organize Live Demonstrations / Interactive Experiences
Engaging, hands-on demos (like water-based material breakdowns or composting reactions) attract more attention than static displays. - Contact Buyers / Potential Clients in Advance
Use the exhibition’s official website or media platforms to access attendee lists, forum invites, or matchmaking services to pre-schedule meetings. - Participate in Forums / Give Speeches
Speaking at forums or joining panel discussions can significantly increase your brand’s visibility and influence within the industry. - Prepare Samples / Pilot Packaging Programs
Offer portable samples or small pilot packaging solutions that allow clients to test and compare easily. - Eco-Friendly Booth Design
Showcase your brand’s sustainability commitment through your booth’s materials, furniture, and lighting—using eco-friendly, reusable, or recyclable options.
Tips for Visitors / Buyers
- Plan Routes and Target Zones in Advance
Exhibition halls can be massive—identify the materials, themed areas, or key exhibitor booths you want to visit ahead of time. - Balance Conference and Exhibition Time
Exhibits and conferences often run simultaneously, so allocate time wisely to absorb tech insights, explore products, and network. - Create a Technical Comparison Sheet
Prepare a comparison framework for the materials or solutions you’re evaluating (e.g., cost, degradability, stability) to help with decision-making. - Actively Attend Forums / Workshops
Attend expert-led sessions and Q&A workshops to gain industry insight and meet potential collaborators or suppliers. - Take Photos / Record Key Information Onsite
Capture details of interesting products, specs, and supplier contacts while on the floor to avoid missing key info post-event. - Follow Up Promptly After the Show
For any contacts or companies you connected with, follow up quickly via email, sample requests, or proposal discussions to strengthen your business opportunities.
Let’s design packaging that stands out. Share your needs and get a custom solution crafted just for your products.
FAQs
- What types of companies should attend?
Food producers, packaging manufacturers, retailers, startups, NGOs, and sustainability consultants all benefit from attending. - Are these exhibitions suitable for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs)?
Absolutely. While large corporations often have more booth resources, SMEs usually offer more innovation and flexibility. At professional trade fairs, it’s often easier for them to get discovered by buyers, early-stage clients, or potential partners. The key is to present your product strengths and business model clearly and attractively. - Are exhibition participation costs high?
Yes, there are significant costs associated with booth rental, booth construction, logistics, staff travel, and promotional materials. Therefore, it’s important to budget carefully and assess ROI before committing. Focused participation in priority exhibitions, combined with forum speaking opportunities, can help maximize visibility and business returns. - How can you better convert exhibition results into business outcomes?
After the event, promptly organize your contact list by category, send follow-up emails, arrange sample testing, and begin business negotiations. Amplify your exhibition results through social media, industry media coverage, and updates on your official website.
Conclusion
Eco-Friendly Food Packaging Exhibitions are not just events—they are incubators of innovation. Attending or exhibiting at the right shows can help you stay ahead of global packaging trends, discover suppliers, and lead in sustainability.
