Macfrut 2026 to showcase a new wave of tropical fruit and nursery innovation

Rimini is preparing to host one of Europe’s most specialised gatherings for nursery innovation, as Plant Nursery returns to Macfrut with a strengthened international profile. From 21 to 23 April 2026, the Rimini Expo Centre will become a hub for breeders, nurseries, producers, researchers and technical experts exploring how new genetics, sustainable propagation and climate-driven crop shifts are reshaping global fruit production.

Now in its fourth edition, Plant Nursery is organised by SOI – the Italian Society of Horticulture and Fruit Growing – and CIVI-Italia, the interprofessional centre representing Italian nurseries and producer associations. The event is coordinated by Luigi Catalano and has gained recognition for addressing the full chain of nursery activity: new varieties, plant production, rootstocks, research advances, sustainability models, and the strategic role of plant breeders’ rights.

Four scientific events, one expanding sector

The 2026 programme features four specialised scientific sessions aligned with the crops and technologies driving the next wave of horticultural development.

21 April – Mango & avocado Day

Kicking off the exhibition, the first day will delve into the cultivation, supply chain dynamics and expanding market strategies for mango and avocado. Leading international specialists will present the latest findings in breeding, production systems and post-harvest solutions, alongside updated insights on global demand trends.

22 April – Tropical & subtropical fruit focus

The second day will shift to tropical and subtropical crops—papaya, minor species and other fruit now gaining traction in southern Europe as climate patterns evolve. The afternoon session will turn to ecological nursery practices, highlighting sustainable propagation methods for both fruit and vegetable crops.

23 April – Rootstocks, horticultural innovation & genetics

Macfrut’s final day will concentrate on advances in grafting, horticultural innovation and the transition from genomic editing to field application. Plant breeders’ rights and their role in supporting competitiveness across Italian value chains will also feature prominently.

According to coordinator Luigi Catalano, this year’s programme was designed to reflect the sector’s most pressing challenges and opportunities. He noted that the conferences, shaped together with the Italian Society of Horticulture and Fruit Growing, will address a broad spectrum of topics highly relevant for producers facing rapid market and climate shifts.

Catalano emphasised that mango and avocado — Macfrut 2026’s flagship crops — will receive in-depth coverage, but equal attention will be given to so-called “minor” species such as papaya, cherimoya and macadamia. He highlighted that these crops are gaining importance in global markets and experiencing strong growth in Italy, where demand for planting material is rising faster than current supply.

He added that innovation in nursery production will be a central theme, especially ecological management models and the use of rootstocks in horticulture. Catalano also underlined the growing importance of protected varietal innovation, noting that upcoming regulatory updates on new breeding techniques could become a decisive factor for the competitiveness of Italian supply chains.

Interested in partnering or showcasing your innovations? Get in touch today and let’s explore a collaboration for Macfrut 2026.