The Farmers’ Union of Wales is set to highlight the impact of falling meat and dairy prices and call for greater domestic support for Welsh produce during meetings with major retailers and politicians over the coming days at the Royal Welsh Show (July 21-24).
With farmgate prices for beef having seen a major reduction over a period of months, and lamb and milk prices recently following a similar trend, the FUW is warning that domestic support for Welsh and British produce is critical.
“Farmers are extremely frustrated that a little over a year ago support was pledged by the food industry for Welsh and British produce following the horsemeat scandal, but a year on our produce is being displaced by imported produce and prices have fallen dramatically,” said FUW president Emyr Jones.
“We have already been in correspondence and meetings with major retailers, and have further meetings lined up over the coming days.
“We will also be highlighting our concerns to numerous ministers and politicians in meetings during the week here at the show.”
Mr Jones said that profitable agriculture is essential for a thriving rural Wales and emphasised the direct and indirect support farming provides in terms of employment and income for a wealth of businesses in both rural and urban areas.
“Farmers recognise the complexities inherent in the commodities marketplace, but the profits from food production must be split equitably throughout the supply chain if all the broader benefits of agriculture are to remain,” added Mr Jones, who also called on governments to play their part.
“We are currently facing a massive escalation in red tape due to the new CAP, and if the new and draconian cross compliance measures proposed by the Welsh Government are implemented, the industry will see additional costs escalate.
“We are constantly being told to be more efficient, but the appetite various levels of government have for additional rules contradicts any commitments to reduce bureaucracy.
“It is also essential that governments lead by example when it comes to promoting, buying and promoting local produce.”
Mr Jones said that the impact of farming on urban and rural environments should not be underestimated, highlighting the fact that The Royal Welsh Show contributes more than £40 million to the Welsh economy and demonstrates the tremendous value of the sector.