On 28 January 2026, leading industry representatives gathered at the JAGD & HUND hunting fair to reinforce their commitment to securing a strong future for hunting in Europe. This annual networking event—this year titled “Europe’s Hunting Sector 2026: Future Expectations and Industry Impacts”—provided a key platform for companies in the hunting sector to better understand the most pressing regulatory challenges emerging from Brussels.

Sabine Loos, CEO of Messe Dortmund, who represented JAGD & HUND at the event, welcomed guests and emphasised the fair’s role in facilitating the link between industry and decision-making in Brussels: “Hosting this key event at JAGD & HUND allows us to bridge the gap between industry innovation and the political realities in Brussels,” said Sabine Loos. “We are proud to stand alongside FACE to help ensure a vibrant future for the hunting community in Europe.”

Strengthening the Alliance: FACE Patrons at the Forefront
The strong presence of FACE’s Patrons—representing some of Europe’s leading industry actors—underscored a shared commitment to supporting FACE’s work in promoting the interests of Europe’s 7 million hunters. With approximately 80% of national hunting rules now originating from Brussels, the event sent a clear signal that industry stakeholders recognise the importance of proactive, science-based engagement at the European level.

Laurens Hoedemaker, President of FACE, highlighted the importance of reinforcing positive developments within Europe’s hunting community: “Ensuring a strong future for Europe’s 7 million hunters is at the heart of FACE’s work. There are clear signs of renewed strength in the hunting community, for example, the increasing number of hunters in Germany. FACE’s role is to defend and build on these positive trends at the European level, ensuring that hunters can continue to contribute to conservation, rural life and society.”

The event concluded with a shared commitment to continued cooperation between FACE and its partners, ensuring that the hunting sector remains a credible, informed and respected voice in European policy-making.