BY: TANA MALINGA
With just days to go before the doors open, anticipation is building for Hostex 2026, set to take place from 8-10 March at the Sandton Convention Centre. The landmark event will bring together Africa’s food, drink and hospitality professionals for three days focused on business opportunities, industry insights and valuable networking.
Held every two years, Hostex is widely regarded as one of the continent’s most important gatherings for the hospitality sector. The 2026 edition carries special significance as it marks 40 years of the exhibition, celebrating its longstanding role in connecting suppliers, chefs, innovators and industry leaders.
This year’s programme promises a dynamic experience with six dedicated exhibition districts: Equipment Africa, Food & Drink Africa, Tea & Coffee Africa, Contract Furnishings Africa, Technology Africa and Sustainability Africa. Visitors can also explore the SA Chefs Village, where live culinary competitions, demonstrations and interactive experiences will highlight the creativity and skill of professional chefs.
The Bidfood Industry Hub will host a series of seminars addressing leadership, innovation, sustainability and technology in hospitality. Coffee enthusiasts will also have plenty to look forward to, with the Gauteng Regional Barista Championships and a variety of workshops and panel discussions organised by the Specialty Coffee Association of Southern Africa.
Adding global flair to the exhibition are international pavilions representing countries including Poland, China, Brazil, Italy, Thailand, Malaysia, Turkey and Egypt. The event will also spotlight emerging enterprises through the Small and Medium Enterprise Pavilion, supported by the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition and the Limpopo Economic Development Agency.
According to Rendani Khorommbi, Executive Head for Tourism Strategic Services at Joburg Tourism, the collaboration highlights Johannesburg’s role as a leading destination for business events and hospitality innovation in Africa. While the support is non-financial, the partnership reflects a shared commitment to driving growth, connection and opportunity across the industry.
Industry professionals are encouraged to pre-register online. Hostex is a trade-only event and entry is free for trade visitors, although no under-18s or prams are permitted on the exhibition floor. Student groups may apply for access on the final day of the event.
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