Royal Welsh Show: Welsh meat exports depend on unity in trade talks

© Richard Stanton

Farmers and meat processors must present a united front if the sector is to maintain or even grow its export markets once the UK leaves the EU.

“Welsh agriculture will have to adapt, as it has adapted before, not by throwing our hands in the air, but by rolling up our sleeves,” said Dai Davies, chairman of Wales’s red meat levy body, Hybu Cig Cymru (HCC), on the opening day of the Royal Welsh Show (July 18).

“If the right trade agreements are reached, Welsh beef and lamb can grow in terms of export value, and can be iconic brands that represent our country overseas.”

See also: Farming exporters share their market worries

Red meat exports are worth about £200m/year to the Welsh economy.

To maintain these and secure market access and fair terms of trade, the sector needs a unified approach, according to Mr Davies.

“The result of the EU referendum wasn’t what many people expected.

“Over the next two years, new arrangements will have to be put in place. Not least of these will be access to the single European market,’’ he said.

He admitted there was an underlying concern about how influential agriculture will be in these negotiations – in terms of trade and direct financial support – when compared with sectors perceived as more powerful, such as financial services.

But Wales’ rural affairs secretary, Lesley Griffiths, said the government would do everything it could to achieve a fair settlement for Wales.

Speaking at an HCC breakfast event, she stressed exports were vital for the farming and processing industries in Wales.

‘Continuity and calm’

Although she predicted the result of the EU referendum would have long lasting reverberations in the farming sector, she called for a period of “continuity and calm”.

“The Basic Payment Scheme is continuing and existing Glastir contracts will be honoured. We want to ensure continuity and calm while the new arrangements are put in place.

“I want to assure all of you that it is an urgent priority for the government to work in partnership with the industry to explore every possible avenue to protect agriculture in Wales.”