The Farmers' Union of Wales today welcomed the launch of the Welsh Government's "Action Plan for the Food and Drink Industry 2014-2020", describing it as an "ambitious document" which could have real benefits for the food industry in Wales.
The union stressed that the primary production sector is a vital aspect of the food and drink industry in Wales and a profitable farming industry will help deliver the ambitious targets within the plan.
FUW president Emyr Jones said: "Wales has been without a strategic direction for food and drink over the past few years so today’s launch will begin the process of growing the Welsh food chain from farm to fork which, if implemented properly, could help farm businesses become more sustainable economically.
"The programme aims to grow sales within the food and farming sector by 30% and the FUW welcomes the fact that many of its comments and suggestions submitted during the consultation process have been adopted as part of the strategy."
The strategy itself comprises 48 action proposals ranging from upskilling the labour force to public sector procurement and business growth and development.
"The FUW will now consider the detail of the Action Plan and will contribute to the ongoing discussions on its implementation," Mr Jones added.
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FUW president Emyr Jones[/caption]