Nearly 20,000 pork producers and industry experts from over 30 countries are expected to tour the 23rd World Pork Expo, beginning today and running through Friday, June 10.

The world’s largest pork-specific tradeshow, staged annually at the Iowa State Fairgrounds, is sponsored by the National Pork Producers Council (NPPC).

“Producers throughout the world come to World Pork Expo for one reason – to see state-of-the-art pork production and technology,” says Doug Wolf, NPPC president, Lancaster, WI. “It’s a chance to hear experts present the latest information, then talk with them face-to-face. And you can experience first-hand the new products that are on display, both indoors and out.”

World Pork Expo offers the latest information about pork marketing and management, legislative updates, animal health, environmental topics, and other issues affecting pork production.

This year’s event includes more than 450 commercial exhibits, business and production-based seminars, and the 30th annual new products tour, sponsored by National Hog Farmer magazine.

“Your family and employees will thoroughly enjoy every minute as they mingle with top pork producers from throughout the world,” explains R.C. Hunt, NPPC president-elect from Wilson, NC.

People from more than 30 countries have preregistered to attend World Pork Expo. While preregistration is closed, attendees still can register at the gate. The $15/person admission price enables an individual to attend the Expo through Friday.

“Each year, NPPC hosts World Pork Expo to share industry advancements that help producers improve profitability as they provide safe, nutritious, affordable pork,” Wolf says. “Proceeds from this event, are used to develop and defend pork export markets, fight for reasonable legislation and regulation, and inform and educate legislators.”

Trade show hours run from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Wednesday, June 8, and Thursday, June 9, and from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Friday, June 10. Breeding stock sales, featuring class winners from the eight major breed shows held on Friday, will be featured on Saturday, June 11, beginning at 8 a.m. in the swine barn. For more information, visit www.worldpork.org.