As the global conversation around sustainability intensifies, the Sommet de l'Élevage in France stands out as a concrete example of how livestock farming can adapt to meet environmental, social and economic demands.

Now in its 34th edition, the Sommet will take place from October 7-10 2025 in Clermont-Ferrand, in the heart of the Massif Central – Europe’s largest grassland region and a cradle of pastoral excellence.More than just an agricultural show, the Sommet has become an essential event on the international calendar, attracting over 1,750 exhibitors and 120,000 visitors, including 6,000 international attendees from 96 countries.

This year, the spotlight is firmly on sustainability, innovation, genetics, and fostering meaningful exchange within the global livestock industry.

Visitors to the 2025 show will discover more than 2,000 animals representing 70 breeds of cattle, sheep, goats and horses.

National breed championships will be held for Charolais, Simmental, and Montbéliarde cattle, showcasing the best of French genetics.

For four days, producers, researchers, breeders and technicians will converge on Clermont-Ferrand to present innovations and expertise across every sector of livestock farming.

The show’s strength lies not only in its scale but in the depth of its programme.

Over 140 conferences and symposiums are scheduled, addressing the most urgent challenges facing agriculture: climate resilience, economic transition, animal welfare, and rural vitality.

A headline session will be delivered by Jean-Marc Jancovici, co-founder of The Shift Project, exploring the role of agriculture in the climate transition.

Each year, more than 6,000 foreign visitors from 96 countries arrive at the Sommet to discover leading-edge innovations, make business contacts, and deepen their understanding of sustainable farming systems.

For Irish farmers, the event offers a unique opportunity to benchmark their practices, discover new equipment and genetics, and explore how European neighbours are tackling shared challenges.

The Sommet's International Business Club provides a warm and practical welcome for all foreign visitors.

Services include free entry, guided tours with interpreters, access to the International Lounge, and B2B meeting facilitation with exhibitors. Free shuttle services run between the airport, train station, and the exhibition grounds.

One of the show’s most appreciated elements is its comprehensive farm tours programme.

Every day, buses depart from the fairgrounds to 35 hand-picked farms and agri-industrial sites.

These include beef and dairy farms, cheese producers, goat and sheep units, a feed lot, a biogas facility, a cattle export centre and a meat research laboratory.

A special visit to INRAE – the National Institute for Agronomic Research – offers insights into the future of livestock science and innovation.

Each year, the Sommet honours a guest country, and in 2025, that spotlight will shine on Morocco.

With its rich agricultural heritage and rapidly developing livestock sector, Morocco’s delegation will include farming leaders and entrepreneurs eager to exchange knowledge and forge partnerships.

Their presence reflects a shared commitment to sustainable, cross-border cooperation in food production.

Benoît Delaloy, managing director of the Sommet de l'Élevage, describes the event as more than a showcase.

He said: “The Sommet is a forum where we reflect together on the future of farming.

"It’s about showcasing responsible livestock systems, connecting people, and supporting the next generation of farmers in adapting to the world’s challenges.”Alongside in-depth discussions and strategic business networking, the Sommet maintains its vibrant, community-driven atmosphere.

From the Charolais Grand Banquet to the festive AfterCow Party organised by young farmers, the event radiates energy, enthusiasm and a genuine spirit of togetherness.In a new initiative, the Sommet is also extending its reach beyond the four-day event.

Through its year-round digital platform, Le Comptoir des Éleveurs (The Breeders’ Counter), participants can access exclusive content, participate in online discussions and remain part of the Sommet's professional community long after they leave Clermont-Ferrand.

For Irish farmers, a dedicated group trip is available again this year, coordinated by About France.

It includes three nights’ accommodation in a 4-star hotel in the city centre, airport transfers and on-the-ground support.

For more information, contact Charlotte Jehanno at [email protected] or +353 86 604 9133.

Participation in the Sommet de l'Élevage is free for international visitors who register in advance.

Discover why the SOMMET is known not just as a livestock show – but as the future of livestock farming.