Picture the vibrant streets of Buenos Aires, infused with the rich aroma of chocolate and freshly baked bread. Food experts, equipment suppliers, and raw material producers from around the world gather to explore industry trends and showcase cutting-edge technologies. This isn't fiction—it's the upcoming FITHEP International Ice Cream, Bakery & Food Trade Expo in 2026, Latin America's most significant food industry event.
FITHEP Expo Overview
The International Exhibition of Ice Cream, Pastry, Chocolate, Confectionery, Bakery and Food Service Technology (FITHEP) stands as Argentina's premier professional food industry trade show. Organized by Publitec S.A., this biennial event alternates between Buenos Aires and Córdoba, with the 23rd edition scheduled for June 1-4, 2026 at the Buenos Aires Rural Convention Center.
FITHEP serves as a comprehensive platform for professionals across ice cream, pastry, chocolate, confectionery, bakery, and food service technology sectors. The expo enjoys support from major industry associations including AFADHYA (Argentine Ice Cream Manufacturers Association), APYCE (Argentine Pizza and Pie Shop Owners Association), the Pastry Chefs Federation, the Confectionery Chamber, and FAIPA (Argentine Industrial Bread Manufacturers Federation).
Historical Development
Since its inception, FITHEP has driven growth in Argentina's and Latin America's food sector. Through decades of development, it has become the region's most influential food industry gathering, attracting both domestic and international participants. The expo provides unparalleled opportunities to discover emerging trends, innovative technologies, and new products while expanding professional networks.
Exhibition Categories
Equipment
- Bakery & Confectionery: Industrial ovens, automated bread makers, pasta machines, flour silos, pneumatic conveying systems, industrial kitchens, dough mixers, wafer baking machines
- Food Service: Display cases, homogenizers, ice cream machines, glycol chillers, maturation tanks, juice dispensers, convection ovens, modular refrigeration units
Raw Materials
- Bakery & Confectionery: Industrial flour, baking premixes, additives, instant yeast, dairy fats, nut pastes, flavor bases, chocolate coatings, stabilizers
- Pizza & Pasta: Specialty cheeses, cured meats, sauces, herbs, packaging materials, seafood ingredients
Target Audience
FITHEP attracts diverse food industry professionals:
- Ice cream, pastry, chocolate, and bread manufacturers seeking innovative ingredients and equipment
- Pizza shops and fresh pasta producers optimizing operations
- Restaurant and catering service managers tracking culinary trends
- Retail and wholesale distributors expanding product lines
- Food service suppliers delivering industry solutions
Participation Benefits
Attendees gain multiple advantages:
- Access to technological innovations and industry trends
- Direct connections with global suppliers
- Insights into market-shaping developments
- Professional training through workshops and demonstrations
- Networking opportunities in dynamic business environment
Latin American Market Potential
Latin America's growing economy and population create substantial opportunities for food businesses. Rising consumer incomes and lifestyle changes drive demand for higher quality, safer, and more diverse food products. The region's abundant agricultural resources and competitive labor costs further enhance its appeal as an investment destination.
The 2026 FITHEP Expo will undoubtedly become a focal point for global food industry professionals. For businesses targeting Latin America, this event offers unmatched market insights, partnership opportunities, and competitive advantages.