On May 15–16, one of the most important international events of the year for the pig farming sector took place in Kolding, Denmark – the EPP (European Pig Producers) Congress 2025, themed “The Future of Pig Farming.” The event gathered around 300 participants from across Europe and other parts of the world, including farmers, scientists, policymakers, and business representatives. Lithuania was represented by Algis Baravykas, Director of the Lithuanian Pig Producers Association, and Ričardas Valiulis, a farmer from the Rokiškis district who raises around 14,000 pigs on his farm.
The Congress was opened by EPP President Gert van Beek, a Dutch farmer, along with Danish farmer representatives and leading innovators in the sector. Key current and future topics were discussed, such as smart agriculture, animal welfare, sustainability, and digital solutions. The congress served as a platform for knowledge exchange, international cooperation, and showcasing emerging technologies.
Insights from the Lithuanian Delegation
According to Algis Baravykas, the EPP Congress demonstrated that international cooperation, knowledge exchange, and innovation are the path to a sustainable and competitive pig farming sector. “The Danes showcase the highest standards in both technology and management. It’s not only inspiring but also motivates us to develop new partnerships,” he stated.
Meanwhile, Ričardas Valiulis, who also participated in the congress, emphasized that such visits help to assess direction: “We are on the right track, but there is still room to grow – in terms of productivity, efficiency, and teamwork.”
The EPP Congress in Kolding not only reaffirmed its status as one of the most significant events in the European pig farming sector but also opened new opportunities for Lithuanian pig producers. It serves as a strong impulse for progress, innovation, and international cooperation – all essential to ensuring competitiveness in the global market.