DES MOINES, Iowa — Billed as the world’s largest pork-specific trade show, more than 20,000 pork producers, visitors and exhibitors are expected to attend the 2012 World Pork Expo June 6-8 on the Iowa State Fairgrounds in Des Moines.

“World Pork Expo has become a must-see event for pork producers and allied industry throughout the world,” said Doug Fricke, director of trade show marketing for the National Pork Producers Council (NPPC) in Des Moines, which annually sponsors the three-day event.

This year’s trade show is open from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Wednesday, June 6, and Thursday as well as from 8 a.m.-1 p.m. that Friday. The breeding stock sales will continue on June 9, from 8 a.m. until they’re completed (around noon).

Attendees will find business seminars on profitability, animal health and current issues, seeing the newest products, services and technologies offered by more than 450 commercial exhibitors.

Visitors will also have the opportunity to watch junior showmen and -women, as well as swine breeders exhibiting some of the best market hogs and breeding animals available, while attendees can “feast on great food and enjoy family entertainment,” Fricke said.

MusicFest returns once again this year as the social highlight of the Expo. From 4:30-8 p.m. June 7, Expo attendees may enjoy free roasted pork and refreshments while listening to music performed by live bands such as Grammy winner David Ball and a tribute to The Blues Brothers by The Blooze Brothers.

In addition, the NPPC will hold three tours June 4-5 for attendees who want to experience Midwest agriculture and hospitality before opening day.

“Tour participants will have direct access to farm managers and agribusiness experts, as they get to know fellow producers,” said Bryan Humphreys, NPPC director of the grassroots organization Legislative Education Action Development Resource (LEADR). “And once the tours are finished, they will enjoy free admission to World Pork Expo.”

Early registration attendees can receive a $10 World Pork Expo discount and free Expo alerts via email. “Interest in this year’s Expo is high, with some of the official World Pork Expo hotels already sold out,” Fricke said. “It’s never too early to make travel plans and register to attend, so you don’t miss out on everything World Pork Expo has to offer.”

For details, visit www.worldpork.org