HORECA Libya 2026 has officially opened its doors at the Benghazi International Conference & Exhibition Centre, marking the start of four dynamic days dedicated to food, hospitality, and industry innovation.

The opening was inaugurated by Lieutenant General Bassem Mohammad Al-Buaishi, Mr. Haitham Al-Buaishi, Mr. Athanasios Anastopoulos, Consul General of Greece in Benghazi, Libya, Mr. Manuel Bayena Pedrosa Consul General of Spain in Libya and Mr. Francesco Saverio De Luigi, Consul General of Italy in Benghazi.

As Libya’s leading platform for the hospitality sector, the event comes at a time of growing demand across the market. With food imports estimated at over $5 billion annually and a steadily expanding restaurant and café culture, the sector continues to present strong opportunities for both local and international players.

From the opening ceremony to the first wave of visitors, the exhibition floor quickly came to life, bringing together over 100 exhibitors and brands, alongside leading suppliers and professionals from across Libya and beyond.

The event is proudly supported by a strong network of sponsors and partners, including Senwan Holding Group (Gold Sponsor), Eithar and Al Nahr (Silver Sponsors), and key partners such as Hommer (Chef Showdown Master & Kitchen Sponsor) and Géant (Chef Showdown Round Sponsor).

Additional support comes from Al Ghasool (Hygiene Sponsor), Monin (Chef Showdown Hospitality Sponsor), Berniq Airways (Official Carrier), the Bank of Commerce & Development (Badge Sponsor), and Al Hadath (Media Partner), reflecting broad industry backing across multiple sectors.

Chef Showdown Kicks Off

Day 1 launched the highly anticipated Chef Showdown, powered by leading sponsors and partners, with the Mystery Box Challenge, where chefs were pushed to create innovative dishes using surprise ingredients under pressure.

The competition set an exciting tone, attracting crowds and showcasing culinary creativity at its best, while highlighting the rising demand for skilled talent in Libya’s evolving food service industry.

Chef Live Talks Begin

Alongside the action, Chef Live Talks delivered valuable insights, with industry experts sharing trends, techniques, and real-world experiences shaping the future of hospitality.

Discussions focused on key industry shifts, including the growth of modern dining concepts, increasing reliance on imported food supply chains, and the rising need for operational efficiency through technology and smart kitchen solutions.

More Than an Exhibition

Visitors explored a wide range of sectors including food and beverage, kitchen equipment, hospitality services, and restaurant technology, making Day 1 a powerful start to the event.

With the hospitality sector increasingly driven by supply chain efficiency and innovation, the exhibition reflects a broader transformation in Libya’s market, where businesses are moving towards higher standards, improved service models, and stronger international partnerships.

What’s Next

Day 2 will bring global brands to the forefront, alongside the next round of Chef Showdown and expert sessions.

As international exhibitors continue to enter the Libyan market, the event reinforces its role as a key gateway for trade, collaboration, and long-term industry growth.