With a lot of machinery covering agriculture and forestry on show and the largest number of livestock of all breeds present the visitors agreed that the chance to visit gave them an excellent insight in to the UK’s capabilities.
On Thursday 12th June, UKTAG hosted a networking event for delegates from Mongolia, Azerbaijan and Argentina. Organised by UKTAG’s Chris Jackson and funded by DBT Central Asia and LATAM, it brought together the international visitors with companies from genetics, breed societies, chemicals, equipment and IT.
UKTAG had been working with The Royal Three Counties Society for some time and so on the Friday, the organisers hosted the guests at the show. The visitors from Argentina, were all members of the Argentinian Hampshire Sheep Breeders Association and were there to continue the amazing relationship that has been developed between the two societies. Initiated by Federico Perez Wodtke working for the British Embassy in the Argentine along with UKTAG’s director Rob Grinnall
They were also in the UK to launch the campaign for the 1st World Hampshire Congress which will take place in Buenos Aires at Palermo in July 2026 and the organisers and members wanted to get as many UK breeders and companies to visit as possible.
The guests brought over many mementos and in particular a great sash for the champion Hampshire bred this year by Stephen Short, who’s ram lamb was champion out of the 120 entries at this National Show whilst reserve was Adrian Rundles ewe lamb.
After the classes, the Hampshire Down Sheep Breeders Association, hosted a drinks party where the guests gave and received trophies. This was coordinated by Charles Hurst, President of the Society who received the Presidents trophy given by the Argentinian Association for its inaugural presentation.
Saturday the Royal Three Counties and UKTAG had arranged for dignitaries to visit from London and they had the honour of welcoming HE the Ambassador of Mongolia to the UK, Mr. Battumur Enkhsukh, his wife, the Counsellor in charge of economic and trade affairs, Mr Zorigtbat Tseveenjav, and the First Secretary of the Embassy of Tajikistan, Mr Zafar Safarov, all contributed to important discussions about trade and innovation. These guests were given tours and met with the Young Farmers and NFU before sitting with the Show Vice Presidents, CEO and Society Chairman and guests for lunch.
They were hugely impressed and wish to expand and continue this collaboration with the UK.
His Excellency the Ambassador for Mongolia and his wife were called forward for photographs with the Champion beef cow, having already presented the ridden hunter champion with his trophy in the morning .
Saturday evening the Argentinian visitors were given a forum space to promote their World Congress in 2026. Dr Rob Grinnall spoke first welcoming the 50+ audience. He thanked the visitors, the Association and President Mr Charles Hurst, going on to explain the work of UKTAG in facilitating exports of genetics, not just to Argentina, but worldwide. Rob explained the challenges, but also the rewards of selling genetics and building relationships with those sharing a passion for the same breed. Finally, Federico Wodtke explained his role in the whole of South America and how he is supporting visits to and from the region through local embassies. His work and experience in these missions has played a huge part in developing these relationships.
All finally moved on The Royal Three Counties Stockman’s Supper arranged by the RTCS where all enjoyed conversation, food and dancing.
They unanimously agreed that this was a hugely successful visit and that the hospitality had been exceptional.
This is the first step by The Royal Three Counties towards becoming a recognised international venue for agriculture.
