Ibero-American animal health and genetics summits

In mid October 2026, regional efforts to address animal health and genetic resources were highlighted by the XXVII Ibero-American Symposium CONBIAND, REGAD 2026 in Panama City. The symposium focused on the conservation of local and indigenous breeds to support sustainable development and climate change adaptation.

Following this, Paraguay hosted the 28th Regional Commission for the Americas conference of the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH/OMSA) in Asunción from November 2 to 6, 2026. The conference brought together ministers and international specialists to discuss epidemiological surveillance, food security, and disease control.

During the event, OMSA Director General Dr. Emmanuelle Soubeyran recognized Paraguay for its progress in strengthening veterinary services, specifically noting successes in controlling foot-and-mouth disease and classical swine fever. President Santiago Peña stated that meeting sanitary standards has been vital for international trade, noting that annual animal product exports have grown from approximately USD 1.3 billion to USD 2.7 billion.