The 37^th edition of SPACE, held at the Rennes Exhibition Centre, showcased the thriving global animal farming industry, emphasizing energy, innovation, and international collaboration. Despite its success, the event faced challenges as numerous professionals encountered visa refusals, potentially impacting future industry relations and business opportunities.

The 37^th edition of SPACE, an esteemed global exhibition for animal farming, recently concluded at the Rennes Exhibition Centre from 12^th to 14^th September. It hosted 1,207 exhibitors, marking a notable 23% increase in international representation, with a record-breaking attendance from 122 countries.

During the three-day exhibition, the prevailing health of the farming sector was evident. Yet, the industry's concerns were palpable, especially with falling production volumes for major products like beef, milk, pork, and poultry. With a rising demand for quality food at affordable prices, the event became a crucial platform for stakeholders to address the balance of supply and demand.

EMPHASIS ON ENERGY

A significant theme this year was energy. The Chambers of Agriculture spearheaded discussions, debates, and conferences centered on energy solutions, ranging from photovoltaics, wind power, to biomass. The restructured "Espace for the Future" provided attendees with insights into energy savings, diversification opportunities, and more.

SPOTLIGHT ON INNOVATION

Innov'SPACE, the innovation-centric segment, witnessed 118 applications from companies showcasing their pioneering solutions. A rigorous jury process highlighted 37 companies, with four bagging the special three-star distinction for groundbreaking innovations like rapid mastitis diagnostic tools and specialized fertilizer applications.

DIVERSE INTERNATIONAL PARTICIPATION

The exhibition saw unparalleled international attendance, with numerous delegations from Africa, exemplifying their increasing focus on achieving food sovereignty. Notably, top buyers under Business France’s “Export Begins in France” program came from countries like Angola, Ethiopia, Kenya, and Romania, exploring the vast array of products and services offered.

Additionally, the European Association of Agricultural Journalists (ENAJ) chose SPACE for their Annual General Meeting this year. However, visa refusals remained a concern, hindering the participation of many professionals.

YOUTH AND FUTURE OF FARMING

The Youth Forum was once again in the spotlight, offering students and young professionals a platform to discuss their aspirations and concerns about the industry. The Tech'Agri Challenge, a new initiative, saw students presenting innovative tech solutions to real-world farming challenges.

GENETICS ON DISPLAY

A continuous showcase of 500 cattle from 13 different breeds took place, with significant events like the National Charolais Breed Competition and the European Simmental Breed Challenge standing out. Moreover, SPACE maintained its tradition of social responsibility by donating 32,000 liters of milk to Food Banks via SOLAAL.

POLITICAL RELEVANCE

The exhibition's significance in shaping agricultural policy was underscored by visits from prominent figures such as Marc FESNEAU, the French Minister for Agriculture and Food Sovereignty, Denise BAUER, the US Ambassador, and Véronique DREZET-HUMET from the European Commission.

SPACE 2023, enriched by its engaged exhibitors and enthusiastic visitors, underscored the critical role of animal farming in feeding the world's growing population while navigating the challenges of a shifting economic landscape.