Get ready for Riga 2025 – EFPRA Congress preview
With the next EFPRA Congress under two months away, we spoke to Zane and Janis Kulikovski of LIONPRO / LINEN, which is organising this year’s event. They gave us an overview of what to expect in Riga in June as well as an overview of the animal by-products industry in Latvia and Baltic States.
What is your background and experience in the animal by-products industry?
With over 30 years of combined experience, we proudly represent the second generation of a family deeply rooted in the rendering industry. Our journey in the industry began as early as 1994, when animal proteins were still treated as liability rather than as a resource. We were helping to find outlets for raw by-products, processed animal proteins and fats in the post-Soviet countries from Russia, to Ukraine.
In 2004–2006, Janis created and set up an animal by-products collection company and started building a rendering plant in Latvia (now Biovast), operating as a Category 1 plant. Back then it was the only company operating according to the European Union regulations. The endeavour was later sold to a Lithuanian company. Nevertheless, our passion for this field has only grown stronger and has given us an in-depth understanding of the industry ever since.
Backed by solid legal and financial expertise and a lifelong dedication to the sector, we’ve earned a reputation as reliable partners and active members of the EFPRA association. At LIONPRO / LINEN, we consider ourselves as an integral part of the industry and we truly believe that we all sit in the same boat and we all are responsible for its successful journey.
We are actively promote the European Rendering industry across the globe, especially the use of Processed Animal Proteins in emerging markets. This requires regular explanations to authorities, educational seminars tailored to farmers and local feed producers (aquaculture, livestock, and pet food), in close collaboration with respected university professors across Europe.
We bring European knowledge—and more—worldwide. Our mission is clear: to help feed the world’s growing population by championing the rendering industry and embracing opportunities where others might hesitate.
Can you give us a quick overview of the animal by-products sector in Latvia?
Latvia has a population of approximately 1.79 million people and covers an area of about 64,589 square kilometres, hence the animal by-products sector is very small. Although, as a country Latvia recognises the importance of a circular economy, it is operating more downstream.
The three Baltic States segregate their operations between different industries in order not to compete over scarce resources.
As we speak, Latvia is utilising animal by-products in energy production and an ambitious project of renewable biofuels is being approved with the authorities as we speak. Apart from that the poultry and pet food sectors are consumers of derived products and processed animal proteins.
Livestock Statistics (2024):
| Cattle | ~352,000 | –4.3% y.o.y |
| Pigs | ~300,000 | +3.5% y.o.y |
| Poultry | ~6 million | +1.1% y.o.y. |
The pet food market is projected to reach €79 million in 2025, driving demand for high-protein ingredients such as Processed Animal Proteins and fats.
What will be the main themes of this Congress and are there any speakers or presentations you are particularly looking forward to?
The upcoming EFPRA 2025 Congress in Riga will centre around the themes of innovation, sustainability and the evolving regulatory landscape in the animal by-products and feed industries. The agenda reflects some of the most relevant developments shaping the sector today.
A key topic will be the role of animal fats in biofuels, particularly in the context of the Renewable Energy Directive (RED), as the industry continues to align itself with Europe’s broader climate and energy goal. Another major theme will be regulatory change, with the spotlight on The European Commission bringing EU rules in line with WOAH (formerly OIE) standards.
While the full Congress programme is still being finalised, several high-level presentations have already been confirmed and are eagerly anticipated:
- Dr. Francisco Reviriego Gordejo (DG SANTÉ) will provide an update on current EU initiatives related to animal by-products and TSE regulation
- Arnaud Bouxin (FEFAC) will share insights on the Circular Feed Platform and its role in driving sustainability
- Prof. Luciano Pinotti (University of Milan) will discuss the growing relevance of alternative proteins in animal nutrition
- Hans Boon (Aquaculture Experience) will explore global trends and innovation in aquafeed composition
- Gustavo Gonzalez-Quijano (Cotance) will examine the challenges and outlook for the European leather industry
- And Dirk Dobbelaere (EFPRA) will present the annual industry statistical overview, offering key data and market insights
Together, these sessions promise rich and forward-looking content, reinforcing the Congress’s role as a leading platform for industry collaboration, policy discussion, and the exchange of knowledge that helps shape the future of the sector.
What about the social and cultural side of the event—what can delegates expect?
Delegates attending the EFPRA 2025 Congress can look forward to a dynamic and immersive social programme that reflects the many faces of Latvia—its rich cultural heritage, distinctive cuisine, and heartfelt hospitality. Each gathering is thoughtfully curated with a unique theme to inspire connection, discovery, and celebration.
June 4, 2025 – Welcome Reception | Venue: Whitehouse Restaurant, Riga
The Congress opens in style with an elegant evening at the Whitehouse Restaurant, one of Riga’s most sophisticated dining venues. Guests will enjoy a gourmet experience paired with captivating entertainment—a circus-inspired performance, close-up magic, live music, and a DJ set to spark energy and set the tone for the days ahead. It’s the perfect blend of relaxation and excitement, offering a warm welcome and meaningful networking opportunities.
June 5, 2025 – EFPRA Regional Dinner | Theme: “Dressed in Heritage” | Venue: Hanzas Perons
This evening celebrates cultural diversity through tradition and music. Delegates are encouraged to wear traditional attire or incorporate a cultural element into their outfit. The programme features a folk dance flashmob, live concert, DJ performance, and a headline show by Tautumeitas, Latvia’s internationally acclaimed folk fusion group. Having wowed audiences at Glastonbury 2023 and represented Latvia at Eurovision 2025, their vibrant voices and modern take on folklore promise a powerful and moving experience.
June 6, 2025 – Gala Dinner | Venue: House of the Black Heads, Riga
The Congress culminates in a black-tie gala at the iconic House of the Black Heads—an architectural jewel of Riga’s Old Town. This historic venue sets the scene for an exquisite evening of fine dining, premium drinks, and curated entertainment. Guests will enjoy a journey through various rooms, each offering a different experience: live music, a champagne casino, interactive coin minting, cognac tasting, and more. It’s a night designed to dazzle, connecting elegance with Latvian charm.
June 7, 2025 – Closing Activity | Electro Car Tour & Local Beer Festival
To wrap up the week in a more relaxed setting, delegates will be treated to a scenic electro car tour through the winding streets of Riga’s Old Town, ending at a local beer festival. Here, guests can sample craft brews, enjoy good company, and soak in the casual atmosphere before bidding farewell.
From immersive cultural moments to elegant evenings and relaxed local experiences, the EFPRA 2025 social programme is designed to be every bit as enriching, inspiring, and unforgettable as the Congress itself.
For anyone in the ABP sector who hasn’t booked a ticket yet—what would you say to convince them to come?
EFPRA 2025 in Riga is far more than just another industry event—it’s the key gathering for professionals who are shaping the future of the animal by-products (ABP) sector.
Set against the backdrop of one of Europe’s most charming capitals, this Congress offers a rare opportunity to gain insights from leading experts on the most pressing topics in rendering and sustainable feed production. Delegates will explore crucial themes such as the circular feed economy, protein innovation and alternatives, the latest trends in aquafeed, regulatory updates, and forward-looking perspectives on agriculture and aquaculture.
But what truly sets EFPRA 2025 apart is its spirit of connection. Beyond the technical sessions and knowledge-sharing, the Congress is designed to foster meaningful conversations and spark lasting collaborations. Whether during technical symposium, over coffee between sessions, or in the heart of a lively cultural evening—this is where real industry dialogue happens.
And then there’s Riga. With its vibrant atmosphere, rich history, and warm hospitality, the city itself is reason enough to attend. The social programme is a celebration in its own right: from the elegant Welcome Reception at the Whitehouse Restaurant, to the colourful, heritage-themed Regional Dinner headlined by Tautumeitas, Latvia’s Eurovision 2025 stars, and a show-stopping Gala Dinner at the historic House of the Black Heads—each evening is crafted to inspire and delight.
EFPRA 2025 is where tradition meets innovation, where science meets celebration, and where the global ABP community comes together—not just to exchange ideas, but to move the industry forward. Come to learn, to connect, and to be part of something that truly matters!
Register for the event at https://efpra2025riga.eu/
