Stewardship in action: The SAPPO AGM & Expo 2026 is not to be missed

Estimated reading time: 4 minutes

The South African pork industry is preparing for what promises to be its most significant gathering of the year. On 2 and 3 September 2026, the SAPPO AGM & Expo will once again bring together people, businesses and organisations driving one of South Africa’s most dynamic livestock sectors.

Hosted at Silverlakes Farm Hotel in Pretoria, this year’s event carries the theme “Stewardship in action – Turning care into commitment”. More than a slogan, the theme reflects the industry’s collective commitment to responsible production, animal health and welfare, sustainability, innovation, and long-term resilience.

More than an AGM

While the Annual General Meeting (AGM) remains an important governance milestone, the SAPPO AGM & Expo has evolved into a platform where the entire pork value chain comes together.

Commercial and developing producers, input suppliers, feed manufacturers, veterinarians, processors, retailers, financial institutions, researchers, policymakers and agricultural students will all be represented.

The event has been designed around three central pillars:

  • Collaboration
  • Learning
  • Inspiration

Rather than separating delegates from exhibitors, the programme is integrated into the exhibition environment, encouraging continuous interaction and creating opportunities for meaningful networking throughout the two-day event.

An industry that is showing up

Perhaps the strongest endorsement of the event is the industry’s response.

All exhibition space was fully booked well ahead of the event, with leading companies from across the value chain confirming their participation. Their commitment reflects confidence in the SAPPO AGM & Expo as a platform where innovation is demonstrated, relationships are strengthened, and conversations lead to practical outcomes.

Delegates can expect to engage with companies representing nutrition, animal health, genetics, equipment, biosecurity, processing, financial services, technology, and many other sectors that support South African pork production.

Stewardship in practice

One of the most distinguishing features of this year’s Expo is the challenge extended to exhibitors to demonstrate how they are putting stewardship into action. Instead of simply promoting products and services, exhibitors are encouraged to demonstrate how their innovations contribute to responsible production, improved animal welfare, environmental sustainability, resource efficiency and industry resilience.

To recognise these efforts, SAPPO has introduced the Sustainability Showcase Award, celebrating exhibitors whose solutions demonstrate measurable impact and meaningful innovation.

Proudly sponsored by First National Bank (FNB), the award reinforces the importance of practical stewardship and recognises organisations that are actively contributing to the future of agriculture.

Experiences beyond the exhibition floor

The SAPPO AGM & Expo has also been designed to create memorable experiences that celebrate the quality and diversity of South African pork. One of the highlights will be the Pork & Pinotage Experience, proudly sponsored by Lynca Meats and the South African Pinotage Association.

This premium culinary activation will bring the farm-to-fork story to life by pairing exceptional pork cuts with some of South Africa’s finest Pinotage wines. More than a tasting event, it celebrates the craftsmanship, innovation and collaboration that underpin quality pork production.

Additional programme highlights, keynote speakers and networking opportunities will be announced in the coming weeks.

A platform for the future

Agriculture is evolving rapidly. Producers face increasing pressure to improve efficiency, strengthen biosecurity, embrace new technologies and respond to changing consumer expectations.

The SAPPO AGM & Expo provides an opportunity not only to explore these challenges but also to identify practical solutions through collaboration with peers and industry experts.

Whether attending to gain technical insights, discover new products, build partnerships or engage in strategic discussions, delegates will leave with new ideas, valuable connections and a renewed perspective on the opportunities ahead.

Join the conversation

With strong support from exhibitors, sponsors and stakeholders, momentum continues to build towards September.

If you’re part of South Africa’s pork value chain—or simply interested in the future of sustainable livestock production—the SAPPO AGM & Expo 2026 is an event worth adding to your calendar. Visit https://sappo.org/events/agm-expo-2026/ for more information and to register for the event.

Related

Die ekonomie van voerkraalafronding

Estimated reading time: 4 minutes Prysskommelings en die impak van bek-en-klouseer skep uitdagings wat buite ons beheer lê. Juis daarom is dit noodsaaklik dat ons...

New foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) regulations unpacked in plain English

Estimated reading time: 2 minutes Dr Mark Chimes will explain the new updated control measures relating to outbreaks of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) published in Section 9(1)...

Bendito Bonsmara: “Legendes van die Veld”-produksieveiling op 30 Julie 2026

Estimated reading time: 3 minutes Sommige legendes word gebore... ander word deur passie, toewyding en generasies se genetika gebou. Die Bendito Bonsmara-verhaal het sy oorsprong gevind...