Intercarn: renewed leadership in the global meat market

 

Intercarn 2026The leading trade fair for meat products will be held from March 23 to 26 at the venue of Gran Via de Fira de Barcelona, bringing together more than 350 national and international companies to boost the exporting and global business in the agri-food sector.

 

International leadership and expansion of exhibition space

 

The salon will once again position itself as the main protagonist of Alimentaria, reinforcing its role as a strategic platform for the global projection of the sector. With an area exceeding 15.000 m2, representing a 10% increase compared to the previous edition, Intercarn It already accounts for 25% of the total surface area of ​​the event.

 

International representation is one of the dominant features, with 30% of exhibitors coming from foreign markets such as Bélgica, Polonia, Países Bajos, Alemania, Italia, Bulgaria, Francia o Dinamarca.

 

Among the leading Spanish companies that have confirmed their attendance are names such as Noel Alimentaria, Jamones Aljomar, Argal Alimentación, Covap, Costa Brava Mediterranean Foods, Costa Food Group, El Pozo, Grupo Vall Companys, Grupo Norteños, Grupo Jorge, bonÀrea, Carpisa Foods, Jamones Cerezo, Litera Meat o FisanInternationally, firms such as Noridane Foods, Ameco y Damak Food, in addition to pavilions grouped as German Meat.

 

 

Key Indicator	Intercarn Data 2026
Exhibiting companies	More than
Display surface	More than 15.000 m2 (+10% vs 2024)
International companies	30% of total
Hosted Buyers	More than
Expected professional visitors (Total event)	More than

 

Internationalization strategy and Hosted Buyers program

 

To maximize the foreign tradeThe organization has expanded its program of Hosted BuyersThe participation of major import and distribution operators from strategic markets such as Emiratos Árabes Unidos, China, Corea del Sur, Reino Unido, Estados Unidos, Canadá, Tailandia, Singapur y Arabia Saudí.

 

According to Anna Canal, director of Alimentaria"Intercarn consolidates its leadership as the main international platform for the meat sector, reflecting the growth and strength of an industry that is advancing in internationalization, innovation and business opportunities."

 

Economic impact and challenges of the sector

 

The meat industry is a vital driver of the Spanish economy. In 2025, production exceeded 8 million tons, generating a turnover of €41.337 billion. This sector comprises some 3.400 companies that directly employ 122.900 people.

 

The event will also serve to address critical challenges through technical workshops promoted by organizations such as Interporc, Fecic, Anafric, Intercun o ProvacunoAmong the featured topics are:

 

 

• Warranty food safety and quality.
• Constant innovation in processes and products.
• Market development Halal (through the IV International Halal Congress).
• Female leadership in the meat value chain.

 

Sectoral Indicators Spain (2025)	Price
Meat production	8 million tons (+5,3%)
Turnover	41.337 millones de euros
Direct employment	122.900 people
number of companies	3.400 companies

 

Key points and frequently asked questions about Intercarn 2026

What is the importance of Intercarn within the Alimentaria trade fair?

It is the largest hall at the event, occupying more than 15.000 m2, which represents 25% of the total area of Alimentaria.

Which international markets are the priority for this edition?

The recruitment of buyers from countries such as China, Estados Unidos, Reino Unido, Emiratos Árabes Unidos y Singapur, among others.

What role does the meat sector play in the Spanish economy?

It is a fundamental pillar with a turnover exceeding 41.300 billion euros and generates more than 122.000 direct jobs throughout the national territory.