“A choice of reason”: the Department of Gers renounces participation in the 2025 Agricultural Show

The 2024 edition had a “very bitter taste”, by the admission of President Philippe Dupouy. The next edition will not have any more flavor. The Departmental Council of Gers has in fact decided not to participate institutionally in the International Agricultural Show (SIA) 2025. An announcement made by Philippe Dupouy during the annual session of the Chamber of Agriculture at the Château de Mons. This decision takes place in a context of budgetary restrictions, a direct consequence of the financial constraints imposed by the State.

Despite this absence, the Department maintains a strong commitment to the agricultural sector, at the heart of the Gers identity and economy. This is demonstrated by several concrete actions in favor of local farmers and breeders: support for the Gers producers' stand, specific aid for breeders, encouragement of young agricultural generations (high school students from Mirande will benefit from support) and promotion of local sectors (campaign of communication carried out with the agricultural high schools of Riscle and Beaulieu Lavacant).

“Our support […] remains obvious and a priority”

At the same time, the Departmental Council is planning a virtual presence via its communication networks to continue to promote the Gers region. This innovative approach aims to fill the physical absence while optimizing the visibility of the region.

Philippe Dupouy insists on the strategic nature of this decision: “Our absence from the Salon de l'Agriculture in 2025 is a choice of reason, but our support for the women and men who keep Gers agriculture alive remains obvious and a priority. “

This budgetary repositioning reflects a desire to concentrate resources on concrete and targeted actions, thus strengthening the attractiveness and resilience of the Gers agricultural sector.