France-Farmers Exhibition .

PARIS FRANCE-A DAY FOR THE BRITISH FARMERS.

Next month’s giant SIMA machinery show in Paris is expected to draw several thousand UK farmers and contractors keen to see the latest farm machinery. There promises to be some high-profile launches on the cards, too, including the world’s first hydrogen-powered tractor.

More than 3000 UK farmers were among the 214,000 people who came to the last SIMA, in 2007. The organisers are expecting an increase this year as UK farmers become more international in their machinery viewing and buying habits.

This year’s event will involve 1300 exhibitors, half of them from France and the other half from the rest of the world. About 25% of visitors are international.

While SIMA is wholly a machinery show, the Simagena event takes place at the same time and alongside it. This is aimed at cattle farmers, with 300 breeders exhibiting. There is also a Royal Show-style event called SIA at the Porte de Versailles with show cattle, livestock husbandry sundries and a huge food hall.

All are free to enter provided you get your invitation card (see SIMA facts box) and convert that to a SIMA badge on the website.