Chaired by BBC Farming Today presenter Charlotte Smith, the debate will feature prominent speakers including UKIP MEP Stuart Agnew and AHDB chairman and former NFU president Sir Peter Kendall, as well as a number of top farmers and other industry leaders.

“The EU referendum clearly has enormous ramifications for the farming industry, and it’s essential that producers are well informed about both sides of the argument,” says Fair organiser Alice Bell.

“A lot of debates so far have centred on farming subsidies, but as neither the pig or poultry industry receive such payments it will be interesting to debate the wider implications for both sides of the vote.”

The popular forum programme, which runs on both days of the Fair, will include speakers from award-winning farmers to market analysts and technical specialists. Morning topics include the outlook for the pig, poultry and egg sectors, while in the afternoon sessions technical experts and producers will share how producers can identify marginal gains and prepare their businesses for the future.

“Innovation and ideas are the driving force behind development of the livestock industry, and visitors are sure to get plenty of both,” says Miss Bell.

“This year we have introduced an Innovation Trail featuring over 80 new products, to make it easier for visitors to identify fresh ideas to take home, so look out for the innovation hot spots.”

Visitors will also be able to obtain advice and solutions from over 350 trade stands supplying a huge range of products and services, with more than 45 energy exhibitors helping producers to compare suppliers and identify innovative options.

Of course, a key part of the Fair is the chance to catch up with the latest news and oldest friends, with a recent survey revealing that networking is one of the most valuable aspects of attending industry events.

“In 2014, almost two-thirds of visitors came to see new products and nearly three-quarters planned to make changes to their business as a result,” says Kevin Sketcher, Commercial Director at ABN, which is partnering the event.

“With its theme of innovation and technology, there will be plenty of new ideas, products and advice on offer, helping pig and poultry producers to harness the tools and knowledge required to drive their businesses forward.”