Welsh farmers must be guaranteed 'unfettered access' to EU markets after Brexit, a leading figure in the meat industry has warned.
In his first speech to the industry as chairman of Hybu Cig Cymru – Meat Promotion Wales (HCC), Kevin Roberts, warned that 'unfettered access' to markets is crucial for the industry’s future.
Mr. Roberts addressed the Cabinet Secretary Lesley Griffiths AM and industry leaders at the Royal Welsh Show.
He also hailed the success of the Welsh red meat industry in winning new business.
He referred to new overseas businesses recently won by Welsh processors working with HCC.
'Notable success'
They supply PGI Welsh Lamb to an additional 300 supermarkets in Spain, a retailer promotion in Canada, and an expanded supply of premium Welsh meat to a major catering supplier in Switzerland.
Kevin Roberts said: “HCC, working with our partners in farming and processing in Wales, has had notable success in developing business in existing and emerging markets across the globe.
“Late last year, a major Canadian supermarket chain undertook successful promotions for a new line of PGI Welsh Lamb.
“This year, one of Switzerland’s leading foodservice companies is expanding its premium range of Welsh red meat. And an extra three hundred supermarkets in Spain will shortly be stocking PGI Welsh Lamb.”
'Home-produced meat'
Mr Roberts said it was good to see a number of UK retailers making commitments to sourcing more home-produced meat.
He continued: “Many – including companies serving all sectors from the discount to the high-end – have made commitments to Welsh lamb and beef in the past twelve months.
“But here is the uncomfortable truth. No amount of home market work can make up for a sudden loss of European exports if that’s what happens in two years’ time.
“A third of Welsh Lamb goes to our existing mature markets in the EU, and we know there’s demand in other markets which are currently closed to us. We have an outstanding product, and stand ready to work with our partners in Governments to secure unfettered access to markets in Europe and further afield.”
Indeed, the global appetite for Welsh lamb is at an all-time high, with exports - making up a third of Wales’ total food and drink exports - hitting £110 million last year.
