Salon du Chocolat to Make Its India Debut in Mumbai in January 2026
by Prashant Kapadia/NHN
India’s evolving chocolate and confectionery industry is poised for a landmark moment as the globally renowned Salon du Chocolat arrives in the country for the first time, bringing with it a unique blend of business, creativity, craftsmanship, and experiential storytelling.
Scheduled for 16–17 January 2026 at the Jio World Trade Centre, Mumbai, Salon du Chocolat – India will bring together leading Indian and international chocolate brands, craft chocolatiers, cocoa and ingredient companies, chefs, retailers, distributors, and industry stakeholders under one roof.
With celebrated editions in Paris, New York, Tokyo, London, Dubai, and Singapore, Salon du Chocolat is widely regarded as the world’s most influential platform dedicated exclusively to chocolate and cocoa. The India edition reflects the growing global recognition of India as both a high-potential consumer market and a fast-emerging innovation hub
“ India’s chocolate story has changed dramatically over the last decade, ” says Satish Menon, Project Head – Salon du Chocolat India.
“ We now have an evolved consumer, a strong premium segment, and a fast-growing community of craft and bean-to-bar chocolatiers. Salon du Chocolat – India is being launched at exactly the right moment in this journey. ”
A Platform Beyond an Exhibition
More than a traditional trade show, the India edition is being positioned as a multi-dimensional platform that combines business, education, creativity, and consumer engagement. Alongside a curated exhibition and conference programme, the event will feature two of Salon du Chocolat’s most iconic global elements — the Chocolate Fashion Show and Masterclasses led by masters of the craft .
“ Chocolate is not just a product; it is a medium of expression, ” he explains.
“ Salon du Chocolat has always celebrated chocolate as art, fashion, culture, and
craftsmanship — and we are very excited to bring these elements to the Indian audience for the first time. ”
The Iconic Chocolate Fashion Show
One of the most anticipated highlights of the event will be the Chocolate Fashion Show , a
signature feature of Salon du Chocolat editions worldwide. The show brings together fashion designers and chocolatiers to create couture garments where chocolate becomes an integral part of wearable art.
“ The Chocolate Fashion Show represents the perfect intersection of technique, imagination, and storytelling, ” says Chef Anil Rohira, Director – School of European Pastry and Brand Ambassador, Felchlin .
“ It challenges chefs and designers alike to think beyond the conventional and presents chocolate as a serious creative medium. Bringing this to India will be both inspiring and transformative for the next generation of pastry and chocolate professionals. ”
According to the Project Head, the fashion show also plays a strategic role in broadening the event’s appeal.
“ It captures attention instantly and communicates that chocolate today is as much about experience and emotion as it is about taste, ” he notes.
“ For India, this will be a visually powerful and completely new experience. ”
Masterclasses by Masters of the Craft
Adding depth and knowledge-sharing to the event will be a series of exclusive masterclasses , conducted by renowned chocolatiers, pastry chefs, and industry experts from India and overseas . These sessions will offer insights into technique, innovation, flavour development, sustainability, and evolving global trends.
“ Learning and skill development are critical for the next phase of growth in India’s chocolate industry, ” he says.
“ These masterclasses are designed to inspire professionals, empower emerging talent, and expose Indian chocolatiers to global best practices. ”
Supporting Innovation, MSMEs and Emerging Brands
A key focus of the India edition will be enabling participation from MSMEs, regional brands, and emerging chocolatiers , alongside established national and international players.
“ Some of the most exciting innovation in Indian chocolate today is coming from small and mid-sized players, ” he observes.
“ This platform will give them visibility, credibility, and access to a wider ecosystem — from buyers and chefs to retailers and collaborators. ”
Why Mumbai
Mumbai’s selection as the host city was deliberate. As India’s financial capital and a gateway for international business, the city offers unmatched access to decision-makers across retail, hospitality, distribution, and media.
“ Mumbai understands scale, aspiration, and consumer engagement, ” he adds.
“ It is the ideal city to host a global-format event like Salon du Chocolat while keeping it deeply relevant to the Indian market. ”
Looking Ahead
With strong interest already emerging from brands, chefs, and global stakeholders, Salon du Chocolat – India is expected to become a key annual meeting point for the chocolate and cocoa industry in the region.
“ This is just the beginning, ” he concludes.
“ Our vision is to establish Salon du Chocolat – India as the definitive platform for chocolate excellence, innovation, education, and collaboration in the country. ”