The Uruguayan farm show that has hosted Falklands delegations opens its 2026 edition

The Rural Association of Uruguay announced plans for the 121st edition of Expo Prado, the nation's premier livestock, agro-industrial, and commercial exhibition, to take place from September 11 to 20 at the Prado showground in Montevideo. The event will feature the completion of the final of three historic sheds, rebuilt since 2023, designed by architect Cayetano Buigas y Monravá.

These structures, designated as National Historic Monuments, required restoration to maintain their original designs, with an estimated investment of 1.5 million dollars per shed.

Rafael Ferber, the association's president, praised the venue as a testament to Uruguay's productive evolution and expressed gratitude to the Montevideo city government for its support in using the grounds year-round. Mayor Mario Bergara highlighted that 60% of the country's territory is rural, and 40% of the fruit and vegetables consumed by Uruguayans originate from these rural areas.

During the expo, over 2,000 animals from 40 different breeds, including beef and dairy cattle, sheep, goats, pigs, horses, rabbits, poultry, and dogs, will be displayed in the livestock section. The agro-industrial and commercial section will host more than 650 exhibitors and representatives from various national, departmental, and diplomatic sources.

The international aspect of the fair has previously been a subject of diplomatic conflicts, notably the Falklands' participation as ambassadors invited to observe Uruguay's rural sector.

The Falklands made their debut as a delegation in 2015, joining the British embassy pavilion, and have returned in subsequent years. Their presence has often sparked Argentine protests, with Argentina claiming sovereignty over the Falkland Islands, which the UK has controlled since 1833. Following their participation in 2024, Argentina made formal representations to Uruguay's government and the association to dissuade the Falklands from attending the 2025 exhibition. As of now, Argentina has not officially confirmed its presence at this year's Expo Prado.