Ifat 2026, which will take place in Munich from May 4 to 7, 2026, is considered the world's leading trade fair for water, sewage, waste, and raw materials management. Under the claim “Solutions for Water, Recycling and Circularity,” it brings together manufacturers, users, service providers, research institutions, and political decision-makers from all over the world and offers a comprehensive overview of current developments and solutions in environmental technologies.
Ifat to change its duration from its anniversary year in 2026
Ifat has been on a growth course for years. This was most recently confirmed by the exhibitor and visitor numbers for the 2024 event. A key factor in its success is its continuous focus on new developments and the needs of visitors and exhibitors. In 2026, the trade fair will celebrate its 60th anniversary. Against this backdrop, Messe München has decided, after extensive evaluation and in consultation with companies and associations, to shorten the duration of the fair from five to four days. The opening hours will remain unchanged at 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. On the last day of the fair, visitors can also look forward to an attractive program of events with specialist presentations and discussion panels.
Key topics at Ifat 2026
The trade fair will focus on technologies and services related to the sustainable use of resources. These include:
- Water and wastewater management: from efficient water treatment to wastewater treatment.
- Circular economy and recycling: solutions for the recovery of recyclable materials and the reduction of waste.
- Waste management and urban cleaning: vehicles, systems, and digital tools for municipal and industrial applications.
- Air pollution control and emission protection: processes for minimizing pollutant emissions.
- Energy generation from secondary raw materials: technologies for sustainable energy production.
Ifat as an international platform for exchange and innovation
Ifat is not only a product show, but also a forum for knowledge transfer and international cooperation. Specialist conferences, panel discussions, and practical demonstrations offer in-depth insights into current challenges and future trends. Topics such as climate protection, resource efficiency, digitalization, and the circular economy are discussed in a practical context and illustrated with examples of best practice. A special feature of the trade fair is the large number of international joint stands and delegations. This makes Ifat 2026 a central meeting place for companies looking to tap into new markets or establish international partnerships.
Significance for trade visitors
For municipal decision-makers, industry representatives, and technology providers, Ifat 2026 offers a central platform for discovering solutions to the growing requirements of environmental and resource protection. In addition to the exhibitions, visitors benefit from an extensive supporting program with workshops and live demonstrations that impart practical knowledge and enable direct exchange with experts. Ifat 2026 thus demonstrates how environmental technologies can be used worldwide to use resources more efficiently, reduce emissions, and develop sustainable business models.
