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IFAT 2026: Strong Results and Positive Outlook for RETech

In its 60th anniversary year, IFAT Worldwide set a new benchmark, welcoming 142,000 visitors from nearly 160 countries over the course of four days. For German RETech Partnership, the export network for recycling and waste management, this marked its most active and dynamic participation to date.

Building on its objective to connect German expertise with international demand, RETech delivered four days of intensive exchange, strategic dialogue, and new cooperation opportunities, further strengthening its role as a bridge between German know-how and global markets in the recycling and circular economy sector.

A Renewed Presence, Strong Engagement, and Lasting Outcomes

German RETech Partnership’s participation in IFAT 2026 marked an important milestone. With a new Executive Board in place since the end of 2025 and a new office team established in March 2026, the organisation presented a clearly renewed profile—reflected in both the content of its programme and its strengthened engagement with partners.

Over four days, RETech actively contributed to shaping the sector through:

  • Continuous exchange and networking at the RETech booth (Hall B4, Booth 142)
  • Contributions on the IFAT Orange Stage
  • Participation in workshops and panel discussions
  • Organisation of site visits
  • Hosting of an International Delegation Reception

The booth served as a central meeting point for international companies, institutions, and delegations seeking collaboration and expertise in waste management and the circular economy.

Amid a full programme, RETech placed strong emphasis on direct member engagement, fostering valuable exchanges in a highly positive atmosphere driven by high-quality visitors, productive discussions, and a strong, evolving team spirit.

The choice of Hall B4 further supported this dynamic, enabling close collaboration with key partners such as VDMA and Germany Trade & Invest (GTAI), while strengthening synergies within the broader industry ecosystem.

Building on this momentum, RETech is now focused on turning dialogue into concrete outcomes. Discussions initiated during IFAT are already developing into project opportunities, new partnerships, and continued cooperation with international institutions and delegations.

High-Level Dialogue on the Orange Stage

A key element of RETech’s presence was its contribution to the IFAT Orange Stage, where four panel discussions addressed pressing global challenges:

  • Managing Waste to Cool Down a Warming World?
  • Where Does the Money Go? Investing in Circular Economy and Waste Management Infrastructure Worldwide
  • Digital Product Passports: A Tool for Higher-Quality Recycling?
  • EU in View: How to Make Use of the Impact of Waste Management on Climate Protection

These sessions brought together decision-makers, practitioners, and experts, fostering practical discussions and forward-looking solutions.

New Formats and Stronger International Connections

In addition to its established activities, RETech introduced new formats that were met with very positive feedback.

Following the celebration of 15 years of RETech, a dedicated get-together for members, partners, and international guests created an informal setting for exchange and networking.

Furthermore, as part of the Market Entry Programme (MEP), RETech organised a comprehensive programme for a Brazilian delegation of more than 30 participants, in cooperation with AHK Rio de Janeiro and supported by the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy (BMWE). The programme included trade fair participation, guided tours, company presentations, and site visits in the Munich region, enabling targeted knowledge transfer and concrete business connections.

Strategic Partnerships and Global Dialogue

A major highlight was the roundtable discussion organised with the World Bank Group as part of the Procurement Roadshow in Germany.

The session provided:

  • Insights into World Bank procurement processes and sector priorities
  • Practical project experience from German companies
  • Direct exchange between international institutions and the private sector

The discussions proved highly impactful, with follow-up meetings already underway, demonstrating strong potential for future cooperation.

Looking Ahead

With global demand for sustainable waste management and circular economy solutions continuing to grow, German RETech Partnership is well positioned to expand its international activities and support its members in new markets.

The organisation looks forward to building on the dialogue initiated at IFAT and to shaping the next chapter of international cooperation in the circular economy sector.

We look forward to seeing you at the next IFAT event: IFAT India 2026 (9 – 11 September 2026)!