Welsh farming took centre stage today at one of the UK's leading
agricultural events, as Deputy First
Minister, Huw Irranca-Davies, championed the
sector's world-class produce and sustainable future at this
year's Oxford Farming Conference.
Speaking to delegates at OFC26 today, the Deputy First Minister
with responsibility for Climate Change and Rural Affairs
highlighted the quality and innovation of Welsh agriculture to an
influential UK-wide audience.
The Deputy First Minister, said: "This is a
landmark moment for farming in Wales – after several
years of development - our Sustainable Farming Scheme commenced
last week. It represents a new
partnership between the people of Wales and farmers - supporting
the ongoing sustainable production
of food, and addressing the climate and nature
emergency.
"Our vision is for a thriving, sustainable Welsh
agriculture and food sector that delivers world-class produce
while safeguarding the health and welfare of animals and people.
Working collaboratively with farmers and other stakeholders, we
are now bringing that vision to life.”
Under the SFS, an annual whole farm
Universal Payment will go to farmers who meet a set of 12
Universal Actions. Beyond this, Optional and Collaborative
elements are available for farmers wishing to improve their
productivity or environmental impact.
The Welsh Government has committed up to £238 million
to the Universal layer and legacy Basic Payment Scheme in 2026,
providing financial certainty for farming families.
The scheme was developed through extensive
collaboration with the farming sector and others, with
changes made to reduce complexity and ensure accessibility for
all farmers, including tenants.
