The 13th World Ham Congress promotes competitiveness and international projection of the meat industry

El XIII Congreso Mundial del Jamón will bring together professionals from the sector in Granada From April 28 to 30, 2026. Organized by InterhamThe event seeks to enhance the competitiveness, sustainability and traceability of an industry that is strategic for the Spanish economy and foreign trade.

Official presentation in Granada: Tradition and global strategy

The city of Granada It has been the chosen venue for the launch of the business science program of XIII Congreso Mundial del Jamón (CMJThe event was attended by Marifrán Carazo, mayor of Granada, who emphasized the impact of the agri-food sector on territorial economic development.

Julio Tapiador, President of Interham And from the Organizing Committee, he emphasized during the presentation that this meeting comes at a vital moment for the industry. According to Julio Tapiador: "he XIII Congreso Mundial del Jamón This comes at a crucial time for this sector, when it is essential to strengthen our international competitivenessBut without having to give up the values that set us apart: quality, sustainability and traceability."

The event is positioned as a platform for strategic cohesion for the entire value chain, consolidating Granada as an enclave that balances tradition with a focus on foreign markets.

International focus: The alliance with Japan and Italy

This edition of the CMJ gives a leading role to two key markets for the global business of the ham: Japón e ItaliaThe Japanese delegation will include the participation of Toshihide Nishimura, from the Umami Information Centerwho will delve deeper into the concepts of Smell, Kokumi y Umami in cured hams.

Likewise, the cutter Saki Yokogawa will provide a practical perspective on consumption in the Asian market. The Italian delegation, for its part, will be led by Davide Calderone, director of ASSICA, and Mario Cichetti, from the Consorcio del Prosciutto di San Danielewho will analyze consumer trends and strategies product differentiation worldwide.

A snapshot of the sector: Leadership and exports on the rise

The meat industry is consolidating its position as the main driver of the food sector in Españaplacing it on par with sectors such as the chemical or metallurgical industries. In 2025, turnover reached record figures, supported by increased production and strong export activity.

Sectoral Indicator (2025 Data)	Figure / Value	Context / Variation
Total turnover (Meat industry)	> €41.300 million	23% of total Food and Beverages
Exports of hams and shoulders	€857 million	+5% compared to the previous year
Exported volume	73.000 tonnes	Increase greater than 3%
Slaughter of pigs	57 million pigs	+4,5% annual
Direct employment (Meat sector)	97.000 gastro stands	25% of employment in the food sector
Main destination (France)	13.500 tonnes	Value of €164 million

With 23% of the production of the Unión Europea, España It remains the world's fourth largest producer, only behind powers such as China, Estados Unidos y BrasilThe ham business sector is made up of approximately 700 companies which generate 11.000 direct jobs.

Organization and strategic alliances

El XIII Congreso Mundial del Jamón is organized by Interham, under the impetus of the Asociación Nacional de Industrias de la Carne de España (ANICE) And Federación Empresarial de Carnes e Industrias Cárnicas (FECIC).

The event is supported by Main Partners la talla of Incarlopsa, Interporc y ASICIIn addition, sponsors from various categories are joining, such as Pacisa, Salins, Bellvis, Rotogal, Middleby, Steelblade, Batallé, GAM Family, Travaglini, the IGP Jamón de Trevélez, Multiscan Technologies, DOP Dehesa de Extremadura y Monte Nevado, among others.

registration: Available in General, Student and Half Congress options.
Social Program: Includes cultural visits to Granada and its surroundings for congressmen.
Objective: Knowledge generation and innovation in the value chain.

Key points and frequently asked questions about the XIII World Ham Congress

What is Spain's position in global pork production?

España It is the fourth largest producer in the world with 2,1% of global production and 23% of the production of the Unión Europea, reaching 57 million pigs slaughtered in 2025.

Which countries have a special role in this edition of the congress?

Japón e Italia The featured guest countries are those contributing experts in sensory analysis (Umami) and internationalization strategies for cured products.