The AGRO & Active TRAVEL 2026 Fair took place in Kielce on 11–12 April 2026. Officially opened by the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Stefan Krajewski, the event featured the active participation of the National Research Institute of Animal Production (NRIAP). The Institute’s presence created a platform connecting scientific research with agricultural practice and the tourism sector. The central message of the event was clear: the Polish countryside as a world-class brand.
This year’s edition, marking the return of the renowned Agrotravel exhibition after a decade-long break, became a venue for important declarations concerning the future of rural development. Minister Stefan Krajewski emphasized that Polish agritourism has become a professional brand successfully combining tradition with innovation.
The activities carried out by the National Research Institute of Animal Production strongly reflect this vision. During numerous meetings with representatives of the Ministry and business leaders, the Institute’s Director, Dr Eng. Tomasz Jacek, highlighted the fundamental role of scientific research in strengthening the competitiveness of rural Poland.
“The Polish countryside is our pride, and at the National Research Institute of Animal Production we do everything possible to combine its traditions with modern science. Today’s visitors increasingly seek authenticity, looking for close contact with nature and local heritage. Rural Poland now offers a level of quality that genuinely drives the development of local communities while combining exceptional tourism experiences with education about our roots,” emphasized Dr Eng. Tomasz Jacek.
The Institute’s exhibition stand became one of the focal points of the fair, attracting hundreds of visitors, including a delegation from the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development. It showcased the Institute’s original approach to promoting the conservation of animal genetic resources, demonstrating how safeguarding biodiversity directly contributes to the quality of food reaching consumers.
Highlights of the exhibition included the fascinating world of bees, presented through a live demonstration beehive that served as an educational tool illustrating biodiversity and the essential role of pollinators in ecosystems. Culinary heritage also attracted considerable attention. Under the guidance of culinary expert Piotr Lenart from the “Niech Cię Zakole” culinary trail, visitors attended live cooking demonstrations featuring lamb and pork from native Polish breeds. Guests also sampled high-quality products originating from indigenous livestock breeds, including lemon borscht prepared with lamb.
During the press conference attended by Minister Stefan Krajewski, particular emphasis was placed on safeguarding the agricultural functions of rural areas while creating favourable conditions for the development of modern tourism. The National Research Institute of Animal Production actively supports these objectives through initiatives such as “From the Farm to the Table” (Co z zagrody, to na stole) and “Choose a Dish and a Journey” (Wybierz Strawę i Wyprawę).
Throughout the event, Director Dr Eng. Tomasz Jacek repeatedly stressed that modern animal science serves as a bridge between tradition and the science of the future. Events such as the AGRO & Active TRAVEL Fair demonstrate how research on the conservation of animal genetic resources can be translated into the development of an attractive, high-quality tourism and culinary offer that promotes rural Poland both nationally and internationally.
