The future of the Welsh food and drink industry will be the subject of a new inquiry by a National Assembly committee.
The inquiry by the Climate Change, Environment and Rural Affairs Committee, is set against a background of concern that many Welsh food and drinks producers will suffer as a result of Brexit.
The main concern is the potential loss of the unfettered access to a major export market, the EU.
A leading figure in the meat body Hybu Cig Cymru – Meat Promotion Wales (HCC) warned that Welsh farmers must be guaranteed this 'unfettered access'.
The inquiry aims to look at how Wales can develop an affordable, accessible local food culture, making Wales an international destination for food and drink.
“There are many wonderful examples of high quality food and drink products from sea salt to chocolate to Welsh sparkling wine, not to mention our vital farming industry,” said Mike Hedges AM, Chair of the Climate Change, Environment and Rural Affairs Committee.
“We intend to look at how we can rethink the industry in Wales to make it more sustainable, more competitive in a crowded market, and how it can be better promoted to the world.
“We would like to hear from farmers, food producers, restauranteurs, and shop owners. Everyone connected with getting food from the field to the fridge.”
Questions to be asked include what the future for food and drink in Wales could be, and how to rethink food in Wales.
A consultation will be open for people to submit their own ideas and suggestions. The deadline is 14 September 2017.
