From 4 to 6 February 2026, Berlin, Germany, will once again become the global meeting point for the international fresh fruit industry as Fruit Logistica takes place at Messe Berlin. As the world’s leading trade fair for fresh produce, the event brings together decision-makers from production, trade, logistics, and research to navigate a rapidly evolving global food system.
A Global Knowledge Hub
Fruit Logistica 2026 features a comprehensive stage and forum program with around 200 international speakers, offering sessions that are simultaneously translated into five languages. Across six specialist stages, key future topics will be explored, including global market trends, consumer behaviour, and digitalisation. The Insights Stage (Hall 21) provides deep dives into market data, while the Future Lab (Hall 6.1) highlights technological breakthroughs such as AI-supported quality control and robotics.
Innovation and the AI Revolution
This year’s edition is marked by the 20th anniversary of the Fruit Logistica Innovation Award (FLIA), celebrating two decades of industry breakthroughs. A major focus for 2026 is the integration of Artificial Intelligence. According to the event’s latest trend reports, AI is no longer experimental but essential, moving from predictive crop modelling to autonomous harvesting. Visitors can explore these advancements at the Farming Forward stage, where start-ups showcase smart agricultural technologies like sensor-driven fertigation and drone-based crop monitoring.
Strategic Value for South Africa
From a South African industry perspective, Fruit Logistica 2026 provides clear strategic value. The event offers direct access to international buyers, retailers, and logistics partners, supporting critical market diversification beyond traditional European routes into high-growth regions like Asia and the Middle East. With South Africa’s citrus exports reaching record levels in 2025—delivering 203.4 million cartons to global markets—the fair serves as a vital platform to secure long-term trade relationships and manage shifting global tariff dynamics.
Addressing Local Challenges
South African producers can gain practical knowledge on water-efficient production, climate-resilient farming, and cold chain optimisation—all highly relevant to local growing conditions. The Logistics Hub (Hall 26) specifically addresses “the art of the cold chain,” offering solutions for port efficiency and intermodal transport to mitigate logistical bottlenecks. Exposure to global best practices enables benchmarking that supports improvements in sustainability, quality, and profitability.
Networking and Growth
The South African National Pavilion, supported by the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic), will showcase high-quality suppliers ranging from citrus and stone fruit to nuts and berries. This year’s theme, “Let’s Grow!”, reflects a commitment to global community and economic expansion. By facilitating dialogues between 2,500 exhibitors and over 70,000 visitors, the event remains the premier arena for negotiating commerce and fostering connection.
With its strong focus on knowledge exchange, innovation, and international networking, Fruit Logistica 2026 remains the key platform for those looking to actively shape the future of the global fresh produce industry.