The 29th edition of Ecomondo, a premier expo for the green, blue, and circular economy, recently took place in Rimini, Italy, from November 6-8, 2026. The event saw a significant increase in international visitors, with a 14% rise in attendees from abroad. A total of 1,800 exhibitors, including 21% from foreign countries, participated in the expo, which covered an area of 171,000 square meters across 30 pavilions.
Ecomondo 2026 served as a platform for innovation and technological advancements, featuring the "Innovation District" dedicated to 20 startups and SMEs focused on developing the circular economy. The event was covered by 651 accredited journalists, with 15% representing international press outlets. Additionally, 1,300 buyers and international delegations attended the expo, which was organized in partnership with the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation and the Italian Trade and Investment Agency (ICE).
The event highlighted the growing importance of the circular economy, with the Mexican economy, one of the most promising in Latin America, participating in the expo. Mexico aims to redefine its development model around circular economy principles. This partnership is set to be strengthened during Ecomondo Mexico, scheduled for April 20-22, 2027, in Expo Guadalajara. Africa was also a key focus, with the launch of the Africa Investment HUB, aimed at promoting trade and networking across the continent.
Ecomondo facilitated meetings between businesses, institutions, associations, researchers, and innovators, promoting the exchange of technologies, knowledge, and skills. The event featured over 200 events, including 70 hosted by the International Technical-Scientific Committee. These events emphasized innovation and European policies, showcasing a comprehensive approach to ecological transition that combines sustainability, growth, and competitiveness.
The sixth edition of the Africa Green Growth Forum took place during Ecomondo, focusing on the circular economy and resource efficiency. Discussions centered on water, textiles, plastics, and paper, as well as regenerative bioeconomy. The forum was organized in collaboration with the Italian government's Structure for the Implementation of the Mattei Plan, Confindustria Assafrica & Mediterraneo, and RES4Africa.
Ecomondo 2026 was organized in collaboration with several prominent international organizations, including the European Commission, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), and the European Environment Agency. The next edition of Ecomondo is scheduled for November 9-12, 2027, at the Rimini Exhibition Park.
The expo demonstrated its significance in promoting sustainable development and international cooperation. With its growing global reach and influence, Ecomondo continues to play a vital role in shaping the future of the green economy.
Key points
- The 29th edition of Ecomondo drew a large international crowd, with 651 accredited journalists and 1,300 international buyers and delegations.
- The event featured over 200 events, including 70 hosted by the International Technical-Scientific Committee, emphasizing innovation and European policies.
- The next edition of Ecomondo is scheduled for November 9-12, 2027, at the Rimini Exhibition Park.
Reporting sources
- Économie verte : Forte affluence internationale pour la 29ème édition d’Ecomondo · Aujourd'hui Le Maroc