Increased exhibitors reach 954 from 49 countries (direct and indirect).
All sectors of agricultural livestock and poultry farming are represented, featuring major companies.
The 13th International Exhibition for Livestock and Poultry, Zootechnia, will kick off on Thursday, January 30, running until Sunday, February 2. This year’s event boasts 954 exhibitors (direct and indirect) from 49 countries, compared to 834 in 2023, with an expanded exhibition area covering 15,085 sq.m. of indoor and outdoor space, an increase from 14,115 sq.m. in the previous edition.
Direct exhibitors hail from Greece, Bulgaria, France, Italy, China, Cyprus, the Netherlands, Poland, Romania, Serbia, and Turkey, while indirect exhibitors represent 38 additional countries. Hundreds of international trade visitors are expected, facilitated through the Hosted Buyers Program involving 10 countries (Algeria, Armenia, Egypt, Georgia, Iraq, Jordan, Mauritania, Moldova, Tunisia, and Ukraine), alongside organized delegations from various Balkan countries.
Among the participants are the Ministry of Rural Development & Food, product control and certification organizations, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (AUTH), University of Thessaly, International Hellenic University (IHU), and the American Farm School, among others.
This year, Zootechnia features refreshed and enriched programs such as the Pet Festival and Horse Salon, alongside the 8th National Meat and Meat Products Conference, a joint effort by TIF-HELEXPO and MEAT NEWS. Additionally, in collaboration with AUTH’s Nutrition and Animal Husbandry Labs, a special event will present innovative applications in livestock production.
At the Pet Festival (Pavilions 5 & 6), visitors will gain insights into training, nutrition, and health for companion animals.
At the Horse Salon (Pavilion 17), over 50 horses from across Greece will perform in a specially designed 20x50m arena, showcasing skill exhibitions, chariot races, and other activities. Surrounding the arena, equestrian clubs from various regions will present displays and activities.
The exhibition will be inaugurated on Thursday, January 30, at 7:00 PM (N. Germanos Congress Center, Hall A) by the Minister of Rural Development and Food, Mr. Kostas Tsiaras.
Press Conference Highlights
The significant increase in exhibitors at Zootechnia was highlighted by the President of TIF-HELEXPO, Mr. Tasos Tzikas, emphasizing its importance for the livestock sector during today’s press conference ahead of the event’s opening.
Larissa Mayor Mr. Athanasios Mamakos highlighted the strategic collaboration with TIF-HELEXPO and Agrothessaly’s role in showcasing Larissa as a hub of agricultural innovation which he characterized as a “sister” exhibition to Zootechnia and is expected to be further strengthened. He emphasized that the city of Larissa is at the “heart” of a highly agricultural region, aiming to transform it into a hub of innovation and entrepreneurship, with the agri-food sector playing a key role.
TIF-HELEXPO CEO Dr. Kyriakos Pozrikidis noted the participation of 49 countries and the private sector’s strong representation at 99%.
A unique opportunity to discuss and present solutions for the major challenges faced by the livestock sector—such as high production costs, the need for modernization, and the significant impact on domestic livestock due to diseases—is offered by Zootechnia, according to the President of the Hellenic Association of Agricultural Machinery Manufacturers, Mrs. Dimitra Emmanouilidou.
The President of the Association of Importers and Representatives of Machinery (SEAM), Mr. Savvas Balouktsis, mentioned that SEAM is participating in Zootechnia with 10 companies occupying 1,700 sq.m. and showcasing the most advanced livestock and poultry machinery currently available. He noted the sector’s strong interest in new technologies and expressed optimism that the exhibition is expected to attract significant attendance.
This year’s Pet Festival is larger than ever, encompassing all companion animals, including dogs, cats, aquariums, reptiles, and canaries, as stated by the event organizer, Mr. Vassilis Goulielmos. Furthermore, as part of the Pet Festival, which has always been closely associated with Zootechnia, a knowledge amphitheater has been developed where experts will speak about the care and well-being of companion animals.
The project manager of Zootechnia, Mr. Vasilis Spyrou, highlighted the representation of all sectors of agricultural livestock and poultry farming by major companies.
Finally, the General Manager of TIF-HELEXPO, Mr. Alexis Tsaxirlis, spoke about the history of Zootechnia’s creation and its upward trajectory over the years, which has positioned it among the five largest livestock exhibitions in Europe.
The operating hours of Zootechnia are from 10:00 to 19:00 on weekdays and Sunday, and from 10:00 to 20:00 on Saturday.
Parking is available for visitors on the campus of Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (AUTH).
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