IMTEX Forming 2026 is gearing up to bring the global manufacturing community back to Bengaluru, and the scale of the upcoming edition reflects just how much the industry has evolved. Spread across 46,000 square metres, with more than 600 exhibitors from 20 countries, the exhibition promises a panoramic view of the technologies, solutions and ideas shaping the next decade of metal forming and advanced manufacturing in India.
Organised by the Indian Machine Tool Manufacturers' Association, the event will run from 21 to 25 January 2026 at the Bangalore International Exhibition Centre. Beyond the sheer size, what stands out is the diversity of expertise that will converge under one roof. Tooltech will highlight the latest in tooling systems and precision accessories. The Digital Manufacturing pavilion will showcase live applications in additive manufacturing and Industry 4.0. Weldexpo will bring cutting-edge welding technologies in collaboration with the Indian Institute of Welding. Alongside these, Moldex India and Fastenex India will add depth with innovations in moulding, fastening and fixing technologies.
The exhibition will also host platforms that push knowledge, learning and collaboration to the forefront. The ninth edition of the International Seminar on Forming Technology will explore new trends and equipment. i2 Academia Square will give research institutions a direct channel to industry, encouraging the kind of partnerships that bring ideas out of labs and into factories. Jagruti, IMTMA's youth programme, will reconnect young minds with the excitement and possibilities of modern manufacturing.
The interest from international groups underscores India's strengthening position in the global manufacturing map. Participation from Germany, Italy, Japan and Taiwan will bring global benchmarks into focus, while visitors from sectors as varied as aerospace, railways, medical equipment, construction, automotive and heavy engineering are expected to attend.
The momentum behind the metal forming industry adds meaning to this year's edition. Metal forming currently accounts for 29 percent of the Indian machine tool market, and the numbers point to steady growth. FY25 saw consumption valued at over ₹9,000 crore and exports increase by around 6 percent, led by presses, press brakes and bending machines. As IMTMA President Mohini Kelkar notes, this segment is poised for measurable expansion, creating opportunities for both Indian manufacturers and global partners.
Laser-based applications are also seeing rising acceptance across industries, and IMTMA Director General and CEO Jibak Dasgupta highlights a strong presence of exhibitors showcasing fibre lasers, servo presses, 3D printing solutions and intelligent production monitoring systems. As he points out, IMTEX Forming is not just a showcase of machines; it is a platform that accelerates the manufacturing of homegrown products and boosts India's export potential.
Across its five days, the exhibition will serve as a meeting ground for technology adoption, productivity solutions and digital transformation. In an industry defined by precision, innovation and speed, IMTEX Forming 2026 arrives at a moment when India is preparing to scale new heights in manufacturing capability.
(Left to Right) – Mr. Prasad Pendse, Director & Head Western Region, IMTMA, Mr. Rajesh Mandlik, Member - IMTMA Executive Committee, Mr. Mahesh M K, Joint Director-IMTMA
