Organic farmers across Wales could benefit from £3 million in
support payments during 2026-27, Deputy First Minister will announce at the Hybu Cig Cymru reception
at the Winter Fair.
The £3m indicative funding will be available to all eligible
farmers with organic certified land.
The Welsh Government's commitment to organic support is driven by
a combination of environmental, economic and social objectives.
Organic farming is seen as a cornerstone of sustainable
agriculture in Wales, delivering benefits for biodiversity,
climate, rural economies and public health. The government's
support is designed to ensure that organic farming remains viable
and attractive, particularly as Wales transitions to the new
Sustainable Farming Scheme.
The Deputy First Minister, with responsibility for Climate Change
and Rural Affairs, said: “As we transition to the SFS, I want to
let organic farmers know of the ongoing support so that they can
make informed business decisions as they plan for next year.
“This announcement confirms our commitment to organic farmers
across Wales.”
Organic farming delivers environmental benefits beyond standard
sustainable farming practices. These include eliminating
artificial fertilisers and pesticides, protecting water quality
and building soil health over many years.
The sector also supplies organic produce to Welsh supply chains,
supporting rural employment and contributing to the Community
Food Strategy. Organic produce also plays a role in initiatives
including providing locally produced, high-quality vegetables for
Welsh school meals.
During his speech at the Winter Fair reception, the Deputy First
Minister will also outline his vision for Welsh farming, centred
on producing food sustainably, protecting the environment and
supporting rural communities. Speaking ahead of the event,
he said: “My vision is of a successful future for Welsh farming,
including producing food sustainably, looking after our
environment and underpinning our rural communities.
“With the SFS at the heart of this vision, we are committed to a
vibrant and sustainable future for Welsh agriculture.
“I am pleased to say that, after an intense period of
collaboration, the SFS will commence on 1 January. We've recently
finished a run of SFS Roadshows and the feedback has been really
positive, with lots of farmers preparing themselves for the start
of the Scheme. This positivity stems from partnership work with
stakeholders who have helped us to refine the Scheme.
“This year has, of course, had its challenges. In October, the
first 2025 cases of Bluetongue were confirmed in Wales. I
appreciate the restrictions have been disruptive and, following
feedback and based on new evidence, I announced an all-Wales
Restricted Zone which commenced earlier this month. Our
focus now is to encourage discussion with vets about Bluetongue
vaccination before spring 2026.
“Avian influenza presents another current threat and, due to the
heightened risk levels, mandatory bird housing measures were
introduced on 13 November across Wales.
“I'd like to thank all sectors for their continued cooperation
during these challenging times.
“I hope that throughout 2026 and beyond we continue to work
collaboratively together to maintain a robust and successful
agriculture and food industry in Wales.”
