Trade Fair Association calls for conversion of former Jorge Chávez airport into fairground: “It is a white elephant” 08.07.2026

The Gastromaq fair, organized by the Union of Fairs, Events, and Congresses of Peru (UFEPER), is arriving at its eleventh edition at the Villa Ferial complex in Chorrillos. This event, focused on suppliers for the hotel and gastronomic sectors, aims to attract 25,000 visitors and features the participation of 320 brands. Adrián Gelin, president of UFEPER, highlighted the importance of the fair, which includes international pastry, pizza, and bartending competitions. Given the shortage of adequate infrastructure in Lima for large-scale events, Gelin described the former Jorge Chávez airport as a "white elephant" and proposed its conversion into a fairground. The leader noted that the lack of suitable spaces limits the growth of the sector, which generates thousands of jobs and attracts foreign investment, despite the current economic uncertainty that has slowed investments.















