Two days of ideas, innovation, and industry collaboration at SAPPO’s flagship conference.
Since its inception, PIGx has grown from a niche gathering into one of South Africa’s most anticipated agricultural events in the pork industry. The ‘²’ reflects not only its expanded scope but also its ambition – bringing together diverse perspectives, expertise, and energy to address the industry’s most pressing issues.
Hosted by SAPPO, the biennial event is a hub for sharing knowledge, fostering collaboration, and shaping the future of pig production. It attracts participants from across the value chain – from farmers and veterinarians to researchers, marketers, and policymakers. This year’s theme, “Challenging pig paradigms”, invited delegates to question long-held assumptions and explore innovative solutions. Against a backdrop of shifting market demands, evolving consumer expectations, and rapid technological change, PIGx² positioned itself as a catalyst for fresh thinking that will keep the South African pork industry competitive on the global stage.
Introduction
On 31 July and 1 August 2025, the Maslow Hotel in Pretoria became the meeting point for some of the brightest minds in South Africa’s pork industry. With the event fully booked weeks in advance, producers representing an estimated 55% of all sows registered on the World of Pork platform were in attendance – a clear sign of PIGx²’s influence.
Over two days, delegates explored topics ranging from market opportunities to practical on-farm strategies, all aimed at building a stronger, more sustainable future for South African pork.
Key highlights and sessions
PIGx² delivered a programme that moved from hard-nosed economics to imaginative innovation, weaving together practical advice, challenging perspectives, and inspiring personal stories.
- Resilient farms, resilient future – Economist Prof. Jannie Rossouw opened with an unflinching look at South Africa’s economic climate, noting how agriculture often swings between despair and hope. Nico Louw tackled succession planning, reminding producers that “all planning is equal, but some planning is more equal than others”. Ian Kennaird closed the session by asking whether older piggeries can still contribute profitably – and showing that, with the right upgrades, they can.
- Adapting the model: Profit, pigs, and possibilities – Dr Andrew Tucker confronted the reality that pig farming is not always profitable, sparking serious reflection. Dr Craig Lewis looked ahead to the designer pig of tomorrow, while Andrew Fowler shared his journey from banking to water innovation, urging producers to rethink resource use.
- Profit under pressure: Tools to stay ahead – Pilot-turned-risk manager Anneri Kannemeyer drew parallels between flying through turbulence and navigating volatile markets. Nutritionist JD Mostert explored precision feeding to balance protein, performance, and cost, while Alteli Ligthelm broke down the actual cost of production, stressing the importance of knowing your numbers.
- Welfare, trust, and the value of listening – International welfare expert Dr Susan Rodakis showcased proven approaches to meeting welfare needs. Dr Matthys Uys asked whether the industry risks losing sight of the consumer, and Rob Fleming highlighted marketing opportunities rooted in genuine consumer engagement.
- Mindset meaning: Powering progress in agriculture – The final session blended personal inspiration with practical advocacy. Former elite triathlete Wian Süllwald shared lessons on grit, discipline, and adaptability needed to build a winning business mindset. The closing keynote came from Michelle Miller, better known as The Farm Babe, an influential international agriculture advocate and social media powerhouse. Michelle captivated the audience with her compelling stories and practical strategies for bridging the growing gap between farmers and consumers. Her passion for authentic communication underscored a central theme of PIGx² – progress in agriculture is driven not just by technology and science, but by building genuine human connections that foster trust and understanding across the value chain.
Networking that matters
Coffee breaks became hubs of idea-sharing and future deal-making. The exhibitor space offered direct engagement with service providers, equipment suppliers, and innovators, turning casual chats into potential collaborations.
Special moments and side stories
The gala dinner was a stand-out occasion – an evening of fine dining, warm camaraderie, and a few light-hearted surprises. Table centrepieces, cleverly crafted pig figurines, became unexpected talking points (and irresistible souvenirs), prompting jokes about a ‘biosecurity breach’.
Entertainment came courtesy of renowned comedian Alan Committie, whose sharp wit and perfectly timed punchlines had the hall ringing with laughter. His playful take on everyday life – along with a few well-aimed jabs at conference quirks – rounded off the evening on a joyful note.
The Elanco photo booth proved another hit, letting attendees reinvent themselves – as superheroes, bikers, fairies, or cowboys – with AI-generated backdrops. It was a light-hearted reminder that even in a serious industry, fun is a powerful connector.
Acknowledging support and sponsors
An event of this scale is never the work of one organisation alone. SAPPO extends a heartfelt thanks to the sponsors and partners whose support made PIGx² possible. From funding the programme to enhancing the delegate experience, their contributions helped ensure the conference delivered real value for everyone in attendance. Their investment in the industry’s future underscores the shared belief that collaboration is essential for progress.
Closing notes
PIGx² was more than a conference – it was a reminder that when an industry comes together to question the status quo, real change is possible. By creating a space where ideas can be challenged and solutions can be co-created, SAPPO continues to drive the sector toward a future defined by both innovation and integrity.
The countdown to PIGx3 has already begun – and if the energy of this year’s gathering is anything to go by, it will be an event no one in the pork value chain will want to miss.
