New year will be ‘a step into the unknown’ for Welsh food and farming

“... as 2019 dawns we find ourselves standing on a cliff edge ... Our industry’s new year wish is simple; to be able to trade freely and fairly and have some certainty for the future Kevin Roberts, Hybu Cig Cymru – Meat Promotion Wales chairman

IN his new year message Kevin Roberts, chairman of Hybu Cig Cymru – Meat Promotion Wales (HCC) has said that never has a year brought such uncertainty, due to the ongoing political deadlock over Brexit.

Mr Roberts emphasised that the red meat industry, which brings £200 million a year in export income for Wales and boasts the worldrenowned PGI Welsh Lamb and PGI Welsh Beef brands, was one of the sectors with most to lose.

WTO Tariffs, which are likely to be levied in the absence of a deal, are 5% to 10% on many types of goods, but on fresh red meat they range from 40% to 80%.

Independent studies have also identified the sheep sector, which is heavily dependent on exports of its premiumquality produce, as particularly vulnerable to a disruption in European trade.

Mr Roberts said: “Throughout the past year, I’ve said time and again that the future is fundamentally bright for our industry.

“We have top-quality produce, brands which are recognised throughout the world, extremely dedicated producers and an industry which pulls in the same direction in promoting high standards in meat quality, welfare and sustainability.

“However, as 2019 dawns we find ourselves standing on a cliff edge,” he said.

“Independent reports project a fall of 30% or more in farm-gate prices if there’s a chaotic Brexit, and farmers need certainty in order to invest and continue to develop their businesses.

“HCC is working with Government and others to put contingency plans in place as far as we can,” added Mr Roberts, “but the uncertainty and the range of potential outcomes is so great – just three months before the exit date – that the complexity involved is immense.

“Our industry’s new year wish is simple; to be able to trade freely and fairly and have some certainty for the future.”