The goal of the project was to strengthen pig-breeding activities in East Finland so that the quality of the livestock would be maintained and it could be developed in both East Finland and the Republic of Karelia, as well as nearby areas. The intention was to evaluate the opportunities for cooperation in the breeding animal trade within the project areas for pig breeding and animal trade and to make potential breeding animal deliveries during the project. The goal of the project was to update the Karelia Hybrid quality control system to meet export requirements and to offer breeding advisory services and instructions for breeders regarding, for example, pig-monitoring activities and animal health monitoring. In regards to export activities, the intention was to assess the practical procedures for animal transfers, to evaluate potential marketing channels, to list the pig farms and communities in the Republic of Karelia and the other nearby areas, and implement a learning and introductory trip to Russia. In addition, the opportunities for creating joint venture companies would be assessed. Marketing material would also be produced to increase awareness of Finnish pig-breeding material and breeding methods. Achievements: The future of pig farming in Russia was studied together with a business consulting company that specialises on farms in the area of St. Petersburg. Based on the research, it was concluded that the livestock base was old and that there were no resources to renew it. Therefore, pig farming was not profi table in Russia. Pork is expensive but popular in Russia. Twenty-three percent of the pork sold is imported from abroad as frozen goods. However, the Russian Federation had begun construction of pig farms, purchasing livestock, and funding the renewal of technical equipment. The conditions were assessed by visiting farms using contact information received from the Ministry of Agriculture of the Republic of Karelia: only 1-2 farms were interested in developing their production. There were a few significant pig farm companies in the Murmansk region. There were more in the St. Petersburg region; however, there was also a greater supply in the area. Internationally important breeding issues were discussed with the farmers, and the focus was placed on monitoring the health of the pigs and preserving good health conditions in order to fulfil export requirements. An orientation visit to the environs of St. Petersburg was carried out as part of the project. A quality training day in Nilsiä was also included in the trip. The training subjects included breeding, transport and health issues related to livestock. In addition, the project arranged a seminar in Petrozavodsk in cooperation with the Ministry of Agriculture of the Republic of Karelia and the Vankeinhoitohallinto (Prison Authority) project. Ten offers for animal deliveries were made and the discussions were still underway upon completion of the project. However, no concrete animal deliveries have yet been realised during the project. Several brochures were produced as marketing material, which were distributed at fairs, exhibitions, farms and agencies during visits. The contract forms were edited to be suitable for international trade. The formalities of exporting were studied. However, the implementation in practice was unsuccessful. Cooperation relationships and operation channels were sought in accordance with the plan.