Insights from the European Pig Producers Congress in Poland

In May, the European Pig Producers (EPP) Congress in Poznań, Poland, brought together more than 250 farmers, advisers and industry leaders from 18 countries for three days of insight, practical knowledge and networking. Zanita Markham, Sustainability and Engagement Manager, shares some of the key themes from the event.

Marking the first time Poland has hosted the event, the congress highlighted the country’s growing influence within EU pig production, with delegates seeing first-hand how the sector is modernising, consolidating and strengthening its position in both European and global markets.

The programme explored the EU and global pork outlook, the role of pork as a climate-efficient protein, and the drivers of farm profitability – whether shaped by farmer skill, market dynamics or external pressures.

For UK levy payers, participation in the EPP Congress provides significant value through access to these insights, alongside opportunities to benchmark performance, gain practical solutions and learn directly from leading producers across Europe and beyond.

Technical sessions focused on piglet resilience, gut health and welfare-led productivity, reflecting a clear shift towards evidence-based, future-ready production systems.

Across discussions, a consistent message emerged: sustainable progress will be built on science-led decision making, innovation and continuous improvement.

Twelve delegates represented the UK at this year’s congress. Andrea Tranter (NPA) and I chair the UK EPP branch, connecting UK producers with counterparts across Europe and contributing to EPP board discussions that shape the organisation’s future direction and offering.

This ensures UK producers remain part of a wider knowledge-sharing network, strengthening both individual businesses and the wider sector.

As with every EPP event, the true strength of the congress lies in its spirit of international collaboration. The importance of cross-border learning, sustainability and shared expertise was widely echoed among delegates.

What stood out most in Poznań was the energy and determination across the sector. Despite ongoing pressures, there is a clear enthusiasm to embrace innovation, build partnerships and implement practical, forward-looking solutions.

Looking ahead, the 2027 congress will take place in Belgium, and the EPP committee looks forward to welcoming even more UK producers to be part of this valuable network.

To read more about the event, attendees India Griffin-Jenkins and Toni Bagguley have summarised the Polish pig industry and their congress experience on the NPA website.