EIMA International 2026 is scaling up significantly, with exhibitor demand and infrastructure expansion pointing to what is expected to be the largest edition in the event’s history. Scheduled to take place in Bologna from 10- 14 November 2026, the exhibition is already operating at full capacity, with strong global participation underscoring its strategic importance to the agricultural machinery sector.
Interest from industry players has reached unprecedented levels with 1,800 exhibitors confirmed and more than 100 additional companies on a waiting list. In response, organisers are extending the exhibition footprint, introducing new permanent and temporary structures, including Hall 35 and three additional temporary halls. For the first time, the Maserati Area will be integrated into the event layout, permanently expanding the exhibition grounds and accommodating new high-specification halls.
More than 60,000 models of machinery and technologies are expected to be showcased, reflecting both the scale of the event and the depth of innovation across the sector. The exhibition calendar has also been adjusted to better align with business needs, beginning earlier in the week and concluding on Saturday to maximise professional engagement. According to FederUnacoma General Manager Simona Rapastella, the event plays a critical role beyond product display. “The trade show optimises marketing efforts, curates technologies, highlights new trends and builds relationships of trust among industry professionals from around the world,” said Rapastella. She added that this function is particularly valuable in a global environment shaped by protectionism and geopolitical uncertainty.
She further emphasised the role of the exhibition in strengthening international cooperation. Rapastella noted,“The EIMA exhibition bridges the gap between countries and fosters all forms of cooperation, from commercial and industrial collaboration to scientific and technological research.” Visitor turnout is expected to match or exceed previous records, following the 350,000 attendances recorded in 2024. Delegations from 150 countries are anticipated, alongside official trade missions from 90 countries coordinated through the Italian Trade Agency (ICE). Institutional participation will also be prominent, with government representatives and policymakers integrated into the event through dedicated platforms such as the “Extend” area.
Beyond scale, the 2026 edition is placing increased emphasis on presentation quality and engagement. For the first time, a new design competition, developed in collaboration with the ADI designers’ association will recognise excellence in exhibition stand design, complementing existing awards that highlight innovation in agricultural machinery and technology. The exhibition also reflects a broader ecosystem of industry development driven by FederUnacoma, including internationalisation initiatives, regulatory engagement and technology advancement programmes. Particular focus areas for 2026 include digitalisation and robotics, both of which are expected to feature prominently across exhibits and technical showcases.
Supporting this effort, the Federation has expanded its training programmes through the AFI Academy, in partnership with the University of Bologna and the Italian Trade Agency. These programmes are designed to enhance exhibitor readiness, covering advanced trade show marketing strategies, stand design methodologies and the evolving role of exhibitions as platforms for communication, networking and commercial positioning. As global agricultural machinery markets navigate trade pressures and shifting demand patterns, EIMA International 2026 is positioning itself as a central platform for industry coordination, innovation exchange and international collaboration.
