Farmers and meat processors must present a united front if the sector is to maintain or even grow its export markets when the UK leaves the EU.
Dai Davies, chairman of Wales’s red meat levy body, Hybu Cig Cymru (HCC), said 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.”
Red meat exports are worth approximately £200m/year to the Welsh economy.
He admitted there was an underlying concern about how influential agriculture will be in trade negotiations with the EU. But Wales’ rural affairs secretary, Lesley Griffiths, said the government would do everything it could to achieve a fair settlement for Wales exports.
Speaking at an HCC breakfast event, she stressed exports were vital for the farming and processing industries in Wales.
