For the first time in its history, the International Agricultural Show (SIA) was set to welcome a guest from overseas, but that was before the epidemic began raging in mainland France. Due to nodular dermatosis, the cow Biguine will not be able to travel to Paris, just like her fellow cows.
Martinique in the Spotlight
The choice of the Biguine cow as the mascot for the 2026 edition reflects a recognition of Martinican agriculture and of the uniqueness of the Brahman breed. «This should be the »pride […] of the overseas territories, of livestock farmers, and of all of French agriculture,’” announced Jérôme Despey, president of CENECA and SIA, in a press release.
Beyond the communication aspect, the choice of the Biguine cow was a true acknowledgment of the uniqueness of Martinican agriculture, by highlighting this breed of cow found exclusively in Martinique and French Guiana. «The Brahman breed is the breed of choice in tropical regions. It symbolizes agriculture that is both productive and sustainable, and contributes to the development of a cattle industry that is resilient to climate change. It is a fascinating breed that is an integral part of France’s agricultural heritage […],» says its owner, André Prosper.
A bolt from the blue
Unfortunately, the situation in France does not allow for the gathering of cattle, as this would risk further spreading the disease throughout various French regions—including the Southwest, Brittany, the Southeast, as well as the overseas departments and territories. Faced with this situation and the decision to cull herds on a massive scale, farmers are rebelling against the government, as evidenced by the numerous protests and demonstrations by farmers that reached as far as the Arc de Triomphe in December.
For the fair’s organizers, banning cattle is a sensible decision, but they are still calling on visitors to come and show their support for farmers. «We couldn’t just pretend this situation didn’t exist. «In 2026, attending the fair will be a clear gesture of support for farmers, the agricultural sector, and for a fair that continues to serve as a bridge between agriculture and the French people,» emphasizes Arnaud Lemoine, director of CENECA.
As for Biguine, she arrived in mainland France back in December 2025, and even though she won’t be participating in the agricultural fair, she is expected to use her stay to pass on her genetic traits to a new generation of Brahman cows.
S.D.
