Santarem, Portugal, May 18, 2026 (Lusa) - Portugal's National Agriculture Fair is set to return to Santarem between 6 and 14 June, with a particular focus on berries, a growing sector considered one of the most profitable in domestic agriculture.
According to the organisers, the 2026 edition is dedicated to products such as blueberries, strawberries, raspberries and blackberries, linked to trends towards “healthier consumption and the promotion of foods considered ‘superfoods’”, which form part of the Mediterranean diet.
The National Exhibition and Agricultural Markets Centre (CNEMA) director, Luís Mira, highlighted the growth of the small fruit sector, emphasising the increase in consumer demand and the growing economic importance of this agricultural sector.
He noted that the segment currently generates a turnover of around €400 million, having experienced significant growth in recent years, a trend that he expected to continue due to a greater public inclination to consume these fruits daily.
He also highlighted the presence of inter-municipal associations and various local councils from different regions of Portugal, which will use the event to promote their local areas, traditions, cuisine and tourism potential.
He said that municipal participation had been increasing year-on-year, with the fair serving as a premier platform for rural and inland territories to showcase themselves to the public and economic stakeholders.
The mayor of Santarém, João Leite, highlighted the importance of the National Agriculture Fair as Santarém’s main event, emphasising its economic impact and the promotion of the Ribatejo region, in the heart of Portugal.
He also mentioned the growing involvement of the local community, with particular emphasis on the participation of schools.
“We will have 3,500 pupils from our schools experiencing the importance of agriculture, the importance of the National Agriculture Fair and the importance of the Ribatejo region,” he said.
The programme once again features discussion forums, such as the “Agriculture Talks”, which bring together experts to discuss the sector’s challenges and propose solutions, covering topics such as sustainable agriculture, irrigation, digital innovation and the promotion of agricultural products.
Within the venue, the Cloisters will host “associations, companies and organisations linked to small fruits”, whilst the exhibition halls will highlight different areas, ranging from the “institutional and agricultural equipment exhibition” to the promotion of “regional products and crafts”.
Hall A will once again host the “Salão Prazer de Provar” (Pleasure of Tasting Salon), featuring products that have won awards in national competitions, such as olive oils, wines, cheeses and sausages, complemented by live cooking, tastings and food and wine pairings.
Hall B brings together institutional bodies, cooperatives and agricultural machinery, while Hall C focusses on traditional crafts and a diverse range of commercial offerings, with live demonstrations.
The fair also maintains a strong livestock component, with an exhibition of native breeds, specialised competitions, and equestrian activities, considered one of the event’s hallmarks.
Gastronomy remains one of the main attractions, with restaurants serving meat from native breeds and small eateries run by local associations, where traditional snacks will be served.
The organisers emphasise their commitment to sustainability, with measures such as the use of reusable cups, the installation of recycling bins and the provision of free public transport for visitors.
The event features a cultural and entertainment programme, with concerts, folklore, bullfighting activities and initiatives aimed at children.
JYRE/MYAL // AYLS
Lusa
