Macfrut Expo – Italy (Business / Agriculture) 2026

Background & History

Macfrut, established in 1983 by Cesena Fiera S.p.A., is Italy’s premier international trade fair for the fruit and vegetable sector, serving as a global hub for professionals in production, trade, technology, and innovation. Held annually in Rimini, Emilia-Romagna, it has grown from a regional event into a worldwide benchmark, attracting over 61,000 visitors and 1,400 exhibitors in 2025—a 10% increase from previous years. Organized under the patronage of the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Italian Trade Agency (ITA), Macfrut represents the entire supply chain, encompassing 9 key sectors: Production & Trade, Machinery & Plants, Packaging, Agricultural Machinery, Greenhouses & Irrigation Systems, Spices and Herbs, Nursery & Seeds, Biostimulants, Logistics & Services.

The fair’s cultural and economic significance lies in its role as a catalyst for business, knowledge exchange, and sustainability in agriculture. It features B2B meetings, high-level conferences, and dynamic areas like the International Asparagus Days and International Berries Days (now combined in a 2025 Bordeaux event). With a focus on internationalization, Macfrut connects Italian excellence with global markets, including emerging regions in Africa and Asia through partnerships like Assafrica & Mediterraneo. The 2026 edition, marking its 43rd year, will emphasize green technologies, biostimulants, and eco-friendly practices, reflecting Italy’s leadership in sustainable farming. Supported by Confindustria and the Emilia-Romagna Region, it fosters innovation, with over 100 events, 1,500 top buyers, and 3,000 sq.m. of test fields for machinery demonstrations.

Event Highlights

Main Activities or Performances

Macfrut 2026, scheduled for April 21–23, will span 8 pavilions at Rimini Expo Centre, featuring 1,400+ exhibitors showcasing cutting-edge products and technologies. Core activities include B2B matchmaking sessions connecting 1,500 international buyers with suppliers, high-level conferences on topics like sustainable agriculture, supply chain logistics, and emerging markets (e.g., Asia-Pacific growth).

Dynamic areas will highlight innovations: the Machinery & Plants sector demonstrates automated harvesting systems, while the Biostimulants zone focuses on organic fertilizers. The fair’s test fields (3,000 sq.m.) allow live demos of irrigation, greenhouses, and agricultural machinery. Special events like the International Asparagus and Berries Days (integrated format) will feature expert panels and tastings. Educational workshops on spices, herbs, and nursery techniques cater to professionals, with networking receptions promoting Italian exports.

Special Traditions or Features

A tradition since 1983, Macfrut’s vertical structure covers the full fruit and vegetable chain, with dedicated pavilions for each sector. The fair’s internationalization includes buyer programs from 100+ countries, supported by ITA missions. Sustainability is a hallmark, with eco-zones showcasing low-water irrigation and biodegradable packaging.

The 2026 edition will introduce enhanced digital B2B platforms for virtual meetings, continuing the hybrid model post-COVID. Free entrance upon registration maintains accessibility for professionals, while school groups (accredited only) receive guided tours. The event’s “Made in Italy” focus highlights Emilia-Romagna’s agricultural heritage, with live cooking demos using local produce. Partnerships with Confindustria ensure high-level networking, including ministerial roundtables.

Unique Attractions for Visitors

Rimini Expo Centre’s 205,000 sq.m. layout offers spacious halls, all on ground level for easy navigation, with reserved parking and wheelchair access. Unique features include the Logistics & Services pavilion for supply chain solutions and the Spices and Herbs area with global tastings. The fair’s international pavilions (e.g., Latin America, Africa) facilitate cross-cultural exchanges. Off-site, Rimini’s Adriatic coast provides beach relaxation, while Cesena Fiera’s hospitality services (Viaggi Manuzzi S.r.l.) offer hotel bookings, transport, and tickets.

The 2026 edition will feature expanded test fields for real-time machinery trials and a sustainability forum on climate-resilient crops. Nearby attractions include Rimini’s Roman ruins and Malatestiano Temple, enhancing the business trip with cultural immersion.

Date & Duration

Festival Dates

• 2026 Dates: Tuesday, April 21 – Thursday, April 23, 2026

Duration

• 3 days, with over 100 events, B2B meetings, and demonstrations.

Opening Hours

• Tuesday, April 21 & Wednesday, April 22: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM
• Thursday, April 23: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM

Venue / Location

Primary Venues

The event is held at Rimini Expo Centre, a 205,000 sq.m. facility with 16 halls on ground level, connected by wide corridors. All pavilions are accessible, with entrances via ramps and push-plate doors. The South Entrance (Via Emilia, 155) and East Entrance (Via Costantino il Grande) serve as main access points. Dedicated areas include test fields (3,000 sq.m.) for machinery and irrigation demos, conference rooms on the first floor (lift access), and eateries with spacious seating. Rimini Fiera’s internal train station (Milan-Bari line) connects directly during the event.

Main Location Addresses

• Rimini Expo Centre (Main Venue): Via Emilia, 155, 47921 Rimini, Italy – Google Maps
• Cesena Fiera Office: Via Dismano, 3845, 47522 Cesena (FC), Italy – Google Maps

Ticket Information

Sales Channels

Registration is free for professionals via macfrut.com (opens early 2026). No tickets required; access upon verification (business card or ID). School groups (accredited) register via info@macfrut.com. Hospitality services (hotels, transport) via Viaggi Manuzzi S.r.l. (hospitality@macfrut.com, +39 0547 618569). On-site registration at Rimini Expo Centre entrances.

Ticket Exchange

No tickets to exchange; free entry. Refunds for hospitality bookings via Viaggi Manuzzi. Lost badges reissued at info desks with ID.

Admission Type

Free for professionals, traders, buyers upon registration. Dogs/animals not allowed. School groups with accreditation. All ages; business-oriented, no children under 12 without supervision.

Pricing Range

• Minimum: Free entry upon registration.
• Maximum: Hospitality packages (hotel + transport) ~$500–$1,000 USD (3 nights, including transfers).
• Breakdown:
  • Entry: Free
  • School Groups: Free with accreditation
  • Hospitality (hotels, tickets): ~$200–$500 USD (via Viaggi Manuzzi)
  • No booking fees for entry; hospitality fees apply.

VIP Options

Premium packages (~$500–$1,000 USD) include VIP lounges, buyer matchmaking, and conference access. Contact hospitality@macfrut.com.

Payment Methods

Online registration free. Hospitality via credit/debit cards, PayPal. On-site: Cards only for services.

Contact Information

General Contact

• Tel: +39 0547 317435 (Cesena Fiera, Mon–Fri, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM)
• Fax: +39 0547 318431
• Email: info@macfrut.com
• Website: https://www.macfrut.com (English, Italian, Spanish)
• Social Media:
  • LinkedIn: Macfrut Fiera
  • Instagram: @macfrut
  • Facebook: @macfrut
  • Hashtag: #Macfrut2026
• Newsletter: Sign up at macfrut.com (email required).

Key Staff

• Cesena Fiera Team: Organizers; contact via info@macfrut.com.
• Hospitality: Viaggi Manuzzi S.r.l. (hospitality@macfrut.com, +39 0547 618569).

Organization

• Legal Entity: Cesena Fiera S.p.A., Via Dismano, 3845, 47522 Cesena (FC), Italy
• Note: Response ~24–48 hours; multilingual (English, Italian). School group inquiries via email.

Cultural Experience

Artistic Diversity

Macfrut 2026 celebrates Italy’s agricultural heritage through product showcases, tastings, and demos of sustainable tech like vertical farming and AI-driven irrigation. Conferences on global trends (e.g., berries in Asia) blend business with cultural insights into Emilia-Romagna’s food traditions. Dynamic areas feature live cooking with local produce, highlighting Italy’s Mediterranean diet.

Community Engagement

The fair fosters B2B connections with 1,500 buyers from 100 countries, supported by ITA missions. Educational tours for schools emphasize sustainable farming, while networking receptions promote cultural exchange. Partnerships with Confindustria and Emilia-Romagna Region engage local communities in innovation.

Culinary and Local Traditions

Tasting areas showcase Italian fruits (e.g., Emilia-Romagna peaches, ~$5–$10 USD) and wines. Sustainability includes organic biostimulants and zero-waste packaging demos. Nearby Rimini offers Adriatic seafood and piadina (~$8–$15 USD).

Local Exploration

Rimini’s Roman ruins, Malatestiano Temple, and beaches provide cultural breaks. Day trips to Cesena (30 km) or Bologna (100 km) explore Emilia-Romagna’s heritage.

Food & Drinks

Culinary Offerings

Eateries at Rimini Expo Centre offer Italian specialties:

• Emilia-Romagna Classics: Piadina with prosciutto (~$8–$12 USD), tortellini in brodo (~$10–$15 USD).
• Vegetarian/Gluten-Free: Vegetable piadina, risotto (~$7–$14 USD).
• Desserts: Tiramisu, gelato (~$3–$7 USD).
• Beverages: Lambrusco wine, coffee (~$3–$8 USD); non-alcoholic juices (~$2–$5 USD).

Dining Logistics

Spacious eateries (9:30 AM–6:00 PM); allergen info available. Card payments only; free water stations.

Getting There

By Air

• Bologna Airport (BLQ): 120 km (~1.5 hr drive, ~$100–$300 USD). Free shuttles (reservation required).
• Forli Airport (FRL): 50 km (~45 min drive).
• Rimini Airport (RMI): 10 km (~15 min drive, ~$100–$250 USD flights).
• Ancona Airport (AOI): 90 km (~1 hr drive).

By Train

• Rimini Station: From Milan (~3 hr, ~$30–$60 USD), Bologna (~1 hr, ~$10–$20 USD). Bus no. 9 to Expo (~15 min, ~$2 USD). Internal station (Milan-Bari line) active during event; timetables at trenitalia.com.

By Bus

• From Rimini Station: Bus no. 9 (~15 min, ~$2 USD); from Miramare: no. 10; from Torre Pedrera: no. 5. Metromare from Riccione (~30 min, ~$3 USD).

By Car

• A14 Bologna-Bari highway, Rimini Nord exit (6 km). Parking map at macfrut.com (~$11–$22 USD/day). Taxi: +39 0541 50020 (~$11–$22 USD from Rimini Station).

By Bike/Walking

• Bike rentals (~$11–$22 USD/day); racks at Expo. Rimini’s seafront paths connect to the centre (~20 min walk from station).

Accommodation Options

Luxury

• Grand Hotel Rimini: Beachfront 5-star, ~$150–$400 USD/night; grandhotelrimini.com.
• Hotel Sporting: 4-star, spa, ~$130–$350 USD/night; hotelsportingrimini.it.

Mid-Range

• Hotel Kennedy: Sea view, ~$80–$200 USD/night; hotelkennedy.it.
• Hotel Sanremo: Central, ~$70–$180 USD/night; hotelsanremo.it.

Budget

• Hotel Stella d’Oro: Basic, ~$40–$100 USD/night; stelladororimini.com.
• Youth Hostel Rimini: Dorms (~$20–$50 USD/night); hifrance.org.
• Camping Village: ~$20–$60 USD/night; campingrimini.it.

Airbnb

• Apartments ~$50–$200 USD/night; book via hospitality@macfrut.com.

Accessibility

Overview

Rimini Expo Centre is fully accessible, with ground-floor halls, ramps, and equipped toilets. Contact info@macfrut.com for support.

Accessible Tickets

Free entry; PRM registration via email for reserved parking/wheelchairs.

Venue Accessibility

Ramps, push-plate doors, spacious eateries, lifts to conference rooms. Wheelchairs at First Aid (South Entrance). Internal train station lift-accessible.

Transport Accessibility

Reserved PRM parking; accessible buses (no. 9, 10). Rimini Station lifts.

Digital Accessibility

Website WCAG-compliant; app supports screen readers.

On-Site Support

First Aid post with wheelchairs; multilingual staff (English, Italian).