AIC Cymru Brings Together Policymakers and Industry Leaders at the Royal Welsh Show
AIC attended a number of high-profile events, discussions and stakeholder engagements at this year's Royal Welsh Show, providing valuable opportunities to hear directly from policymakers, industry leaders and farming representatives on the future direction of Welsh agriculture.
Setting the scene with Wales' new First Minister
On the opening day of the show, we heard from the First Minister of Wales, Rhun ap Iorwerth MS, who outlined his priorities for Welsh agriculture and rural communities.
During his address, the First Minister announced plans for a new review of regulatory requirements in Welsh agriculture, set out a fresh approach to tackling bovine tuberculosis (TB), and signalled a move towards outcomes-based nitrate management rather than a calendar-based system. He also reaffirmed the Welsh Government's commitment to maintaining the agricultural budget, providing reassurance to the sector during a period of significant change.
Farming in a volatile and uncertain world
AIC's Ed Barker, Head of Policy and External Affairs, took part in a panel discussion examining the challenges and opportunities facing farmers in an increasingly uncertain operating environment.
Alongside Rohit Kaushish, Chief Economist at the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB), Ian Burrow, Head of Agriculture and Renewable Energy at NatWest/RBS, and Tom Rees, NFU Cymru Crops and Horticulture Board Chair, the session explored market volatility, geopolitical pressures, policy developments and the outlook for agricultural businesses. Ed provided the agricultural supply industry's perspective on supporting farmers through uncertainty while maintaining productive and resilient supply chains.
Working with farming stakeholders
AIC Cymru Policy Manager Michael Muncey, AIC Head of Sustainability Vicky Robinson and Ed Barker, Head of Policy and External Affairs, also met with NFU Cymru representatives Jonathan Wilkinson (Dairy Board Chair), Dafydd Jarrett (National Food and Farming Adviser), Tori Morgan (National Policy Adviser) and Rob Lewis (Livestock Board Chair) during the show to discuss the key issues facing Welsh farming and the wider agricultural supply chain.
Discussions covered current policy developments, industry priorities and opportunities for continued collaboration in supporting productive, sustainable and profitable farm businesses across Wales. The meeting provided an important opportunity to exchange views on the challenges and opportunities facing the sector and to reinforce the value of strong collaboration across the food and farming industry.
Engaging with new Senedd Members
As part of AIC Cymru's ongoing engagement programme, AIC Chief Executive Robert Sheasby and Michael Muncey attended the Farmers' Union of Wales (FUW) cheese and wine reception for new Senedd Members.
Hosted by FUW and sponsored by AIC Cymru, the reception provided an opportunity to meet newly elected Members of the Senedd and discuss the role of the agricultural supply industry in supporting Welsh farming, food production and rural communities. The event helped strengthen relationships with policymakers and raise awareness of the issues affecting AIC Members across Wales.
Bringing stakeholders together
AIC Cymru also hosted a reception at the Royal Welsh Show, bringing together Members, policymakers and stakeholders from across the food and farming sector.
The event welcomed representatives from farming unions, Members of Parliament (MPs), Members of the Senedd (MSs), trade bodies, embassies and government, providing an opportunity for meaningful discussions on the future of modern, sustainable and commercial agriculture across Wales and the wider UK.
AIC Cymru was pleased to welcome Llyr Gruffydd MS, Cabinet Secretary for Rural Resilience and Sustainability, who addressed guests and shared his perspectives on the opportunities and challenges facing the sector.
Author
Wendy Ford
Wendy Ford is Communications Manager at AIC, creating and overseeing the content published on AIC's website, emails, Member briefings, print publications, and social media.
