The 2025 Irish Pig Health Society (IPHS) Symposium will be held at the Curragh Racecourse in County Kildare on Tuesday, April 8.

The meeting is expected to see industry experts address "evolving matters" within the pig farming sector.

This year’s symposium is themed ‘Pigs, People and Pathogens: Mastering Farrowing, Animal Health and Workforce Management’.

According to the IPHS, the event will "feature an exciting programme focused on key industry challenges and best practices".

Jessica Wright, the recently elected IPHS president, said: "Based on the success of last year’s symposium, we’re delighted to be returning to the Curragh for this year’s edition."

“We’ve secured a fantastic line-up of experts from our sector, in addition to an experienced panel of Irish pig producers, all of whom will present practical solutions to the challenges and opportunities farmers face when it comes to health, welfare and productivity," Wright added.

The event’s industry trade session will get underway at the Curragh Racecourse Exhibition Hall on April 8 from 3:00p.m. Refreshments will be available on arrival for attending delegates.

During the Symposium, several speakers will discuss "practical solutions to the ongoing challenges presented by health, welfare and productivity in the pig farming sector".

Following the close of formalities, dinner will be provided, which will serve as a networking opportunity, the organisers said.

The value of primary pigmeat exports grew by an estimated 7% to reach €490 million in 2024, according to Bord Bia.

The performance was fueled by a 7% increase in export volumes to approximately 200,000t, combined with slightly higher unit pricing.

Although market prices weakened somewhat over the final quarter of 2024, Irish E grade pig prices averaged €2.11/kg deadweight (excluding VAT) for the year.

Irish pig prices consistently exceeded the EU average pig price through the latter half of 2024. This may be partly due to steady demand from the domestic market and strong competition for Irish pig supplies.

The value of Irish exports to the UK market rose by 11% to €150 million, with Great Britain accounting for €90 million, and Northern Ireland €60 million.

Pigmeat exports to EU member states grew by 20% to reach a value of €110 million. Exports to Germany and Denmark were stable at €25 million and €20 million respectively, while trade with Poland more than doubled to €30 million.

International markets declined in significance during 2024. For trade with China, this coincided with greater self-sufficiency in pigmeat as domestic production recovered following outbreaks of African Swine Fever (ASF).