The Agricultural Fair of El Salvador is the must-see event that brings together innovation, tradition, and the future of Salvadoran agriculture. Whether you’re a producer looking for cutting-edge technology, an entrepreneur exploring opportunities, or a family planning a unique outing, this comprehensive guide provides all the practical information you need: from how to get there and what to expect, to expert tips for making the most of your visit.
What is the Feria Agrícola de El Salvador? History and Significance
The Agricultural Fair of El Salvador is an annual event with deep roots in the country’s agricultural tradition. Over the years, it has evolved from a primarily livestock and local products exhibition into a comprehensive platform encompassing technology, innovation, sustainability, and science.
The event is a fundamental space for the sector’s development. On one hand, it gives producers direct access to new technologies, inputs, and financing. On the other, it allows research institutions, such as the Centro Nacional de Tecnología Agropecuaria y Forestal (CENTA), to transfer knowledge and present solutions to current challenges like climate change and food security.
For its upcoming edition, El Salvador is preparing to host an event of regional stature: the LXVII Annual Meeting of the Central American Cooperative Program for the Improvement of Crops and Animals (PCCMCA). Founded in 1954, the PCCMCA is a premier scientific forum bringing together experts from across Latin America and the Caribbean. This congress, whose theme will be “Climate change and food crisis: challenges for agricultural technological innovation,” will be integrated into the fair, elevating its profile and offering a high-level technical agenda. Participation from over 200 experts from 19 countries is anticipated.
What to See and Do? An Experience for All Audiences
The Agricultural Fair of El Salvador is a universe of possibilities. To help you plan, here are the main sectors and activities you can enjoy.
For the Producer and Agribusiness Professional
- Cutting-Edge Technology and Innovation: Discover the latest in agricultural machinery, from tractors to precision equipment. Innovation is a key pillar, with spaces dedicated to drones for fumigation, sensors, management software, and precision agriculture solutions.
- Inputs and Solutions Zone: Explore booths for improved seeds, fertilizers, agrochemicals, and increasingly, bio-inputs that contribute to more sustainable agriculture.
- Livestock Area: Admire high-genetic livestock specimens in competitions and exhibitions. Technical topics are also addressed, such as managing the screwworm fly or techniques to reduce emissions in livestock farming.
- Scientific and Training Agenda: If attending during the PCCMCA, you can participate in keynote lectures, panel forums, and mini-courses on cutting-edge topics. These may include artificial intelligence in agriculture, gene editing in crops, and digital tools for soil management.
For Families and the General Public
- Animal Exhibitions: One of the favorite attractions. There are usually pavilions with farm animals designed for children to interact and learn, along with impressive high-school horse shows.
- Gastronomy and Local Products: Enjoy Salvadoran culinary richness. There will be specialty coffee kiosks, local product tastings, and sales of high-quality fruits, vegetables, and processed foods.
- Interactive and Educational Zones: Learn about the importance of biodiversity, biofortified crops, and nature-based solutions through interactive exhibits.
- Field Tour: A highlighted activity is the technical tour, where visitors can travel to demonstration plots (like those in the San Andrés valley) to see technologies in real operation.
📌 Important Note: The integration of the scientific PCCMCA congress with the traditional fair means that during those days, the event will have a strong academic and professional component. If you are looking for a more family-friendly and entertainment-focused experience, it is advisable to check the daily program to choose the day with more activities open to the general public.
Main Activities by Type of Visitor
The following table helps you quickly identify the most relevant activities for your profile:
| Type of Visitor | Recommended Activities | Key Areas You Can’t Miss |
|---|---|---|
| Agricultural Producer | Technical mini-courses, field tour, crop-specific working meetings (corn, coffee, etc.). | New machinery area, seed and input booths, forums on irrigation and integrated pest management. |
| Student/Researcher | Scientific poster presentations, working tables, conferences on gene editing and digitalization. | Science and innovation pavilion, networking space, booths of institutions like CENTA. |
| Family with Children | Interactive exhibition of small animals, tasting zones, equestrian shows. | Educational farm, food court, cultural exhibitions. |
| Businessperson/Investor | Business networking rounds, sustainability panel forums, agrotech summit. | Startup and technology pavilion, financial services area. |
Practical Information for Your Visit
Location and Dates
- Fairgrounds: The event is typically held at the Centro Internacional de Ferias y Convenciones (CIFCO), located at #470 Bulevar Orden de Malta, Antiguo Cuscatlán, La Libertad. This is the country’s most important public fairground and has hosted numerous massive events.
- Dates: The Agricultural Fair of El Salvadorr is an annual event. The edition that will include the prestigious PCCMCA congress is scheduled for a specific period of the year. We recommend checking the exact dates and final program on the official channels of CENTA and MAG once announced.
How to Get There and Transportation Options
Getting to CIFCO is easy from anywhere in the San Salvador Metropolitan Area:
- Public Transportation: Various urban and intercity bus routes have stops near Bulevar Orden de Malta. It is the most economical option.
- Private Vehicle: CIFCO has ample parking lots for visitors. During peak days, arriving early is recommended.
- Taxis and Ride-Hailing Apps: Services like Uber, Indriver, and traditional taxis are a comfortable and direct option.
- Car Rental (Carvi): For those who want maximum flexibility, vehicle rental services like Carvi (available at www.carviapp.com) are an excellent alternative. They allow you to book a vehicle digitally and move around freely, not only to the fair but also to visit other attractions.
Practical Tips for a Successful Visit
For an unforgettable and hassle-free experience at the Feria Agrícola El Salvador, follow these tips:
- Clothing and Footwear: Wear comfortable, light clothing and suitable footwear for walking long distances. Don’t forget a hat or cap and sunscreen, as much of the event takes place outdoors.
- Hydration and Food: Although there will be food and drink stalls, carrying a reusable water bottle is wise. For children, packing some snacks is always a good idea.
- Planning: Check the map and activity program in advance. Identify the booths and conferences that interest you most and plan a route. If going for business, bring plenty of business cards.
- Budget: Carry cash for small purchases at food stalls or crafts, although most commercial exhibitors accept cards.
- For Families: Establish a meeting point in case someone gets separated from the group. Always supervise children, especially around large machinery and animals.
Conclusion: An Event Sowing the Future
The Agricultural Fair of El Salvador is much more than an annual event; it is a reflection of the dynamism, resilience, and potential of the Salvadoran countryside. It represents a unique opportunity to connect cutting-edge scientific knowledge with the daily work of producers and for the whole society to value the strategic importance of the agricultural sector.
Whether you attend to update your technical knowledge, do business, or simply enjoy a family day surrounded by the culture and products of the land, this fair will leave you with invaluable learning. Stay tuned to official announcements so you don’t miss the next edition of this great national event.
Sources and More Information
For official, updated, and detailed information about the Agricultural Fair of El Salvador and the PCCMCA congress, we recommend consulting the following official channels:
- Centro Nacional de Tecnología Agropecuaria y Forestal (CENTA): www.centa.gob.sv
- Ministerio de Agricultura y Ganadería (MAG) de El Salvador: www.mag.gob.sv
- Centro Internacional de Ferias y Convenciones (CIFCO): cifco.gob.sv
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