A mandatory, standardised system for classifying sheep carcasses
and price reporting comes into force on 28 January.
The regulations will improve market efficiency for Welsh sheep
farmers and build business confidence through consistent grading
and stable product valuation.
Deputy First Minister Huw Irranca-Davies made the
announcement at the FUW Farmhouse Breakfast event at the
Norwegian Church, Cardiff this week.
From 28 January 2026, slaughterhouses must classify sheep
carcasses and report prices using standardised criteria. This
brings the sheep sector in line with rules already governing beef
and pork.
The regulations create a UK-wide framework, with similar rules
already operating in Scotland and
England with Northern Ireland to introduce equivalent
measures early this year.
The Deputy First Minister with responsibility for Climate Change
and Rural Affairs, Huw Irranca-Davies, said: “Our
iconic Welsh lamb is celebrated around the world for its
outstanding quality and high production standards.
These measures will implement a consistent methodology for
classifying sheep carcasses in slaughterhouses thereby promoting
transparency, fairness, and increased productivity within the
sheep market.
José Peralta, CEO of Hybu Cig Cymru – Meat Promotion Wales, said:
"The new regulations, which now align with a similar position for
cattle and pigs, will allow for greater data capture and analysis
to be undertaken and support increased transparency within the
sector. As a sector we must seek all opportunities for greater
transparency within the supply chain to ensure that choices can
be made from an informed position. The introduction of these
regulations will support this."
During his address at the event, the Deputy First Minister also
outlined another significant change for 2026 – the
landmark introduction of the Sustainable Farming
Scheme. The Deputy First Minister thanked the FUW and
members, for the input into the Scheme's design.
The Scheme represents a new partnership between the
people of Wales and farmers - supporting the ongoing sustainable
production of food, while addressing the climate and nature
emergency.
The Welsh Government has confirmed its commitment to supporting
farmers through this transition. Up to £238 million has been
committed to the Universal layer and legacy Basic Payment Scheme
in 2026, providing financial certainty.
Deputy First Minister Huw Irranca-Davies said: "I would like
to reiterate the Welsh Government's commitment to supporting
Welsh family farms, not just in the short term but also in the
long run. Our goal is to prioritise stability for the farming
industry, ensuring to balance this with sustainability at its
very core.
“It is also a priority for me to support farmers through this
change, and that we are all able to pull together and offer
consistent advice and support to our farmers.
“I want to build upon the important stakeholder relationships
that have been developed to support our farmers to navigate this
transition and enjoy a prosperous and resilient industry.”
Building fairness within the agricultural supply
chain remains a key government priority and is integral
to food security.
