The Welsh Food Summit was opened by The Prince of Wales at the National Botanic Garden of Wales today.
Deputy Minister for Agriculture, Food and Fisheries, Alun Davies, hosted the event on behalf of the Welsh Government, which brought together the Welsh food industry to give their views.
Outcomes from the day will inform decisions on priorities for Government actions and support for the food sector in Wales.
Speakers and groups discussed the way forward for the Welsh food sector and covered a variety of issues facing the supply chain at present. These included strengthening the market and widening exports, making the most of food tourism and using innovation and new technology.
The Deputy Minister said: “The Welsh Government is committed to delivering a thriving economy and sustainable employment, and the food and drink industry in Wales plays a vital part in this.
“I am confident there is a long term viable future but also aware that there are challenges to be faced. Now is the time for us to capture our ambitions and formulate a plan that will clearly identify the way forward for the sector.
“We are all proud of the food on offer in Wales, it is very much a part of our unique culture and rich heritage and our industry is among the most efficient in Europe. Let’s be ambitious for our industry, let’s encourage Welsh people to eat and enjoy Welsh produce and let’s encourage others to enjoy it too.“
Director at the National Botanic Garden of Wales, Dr Rosie Plummer said: “Growing plants is vital to the food industry. The National Botanic Garden of Wales takes an active role in stimulating and encouraging people’s engagement with this. It also takes a pride in sourcing and serving local food and frequently provides a showcase for local produce at its events. With its exciting new programme, Growing the Future, it will be developing food growing skills right across Wales.”
Carmarthenshire County Council Leader Cllr Kevin Madge said: “This summit is a very positive development for Carmarthenshire and West Wales which is renowned as a food producing region.
“It was important to have a chance for the voice of the food producers and processors to be heard and to discuss what help and support is needed by an industry which is an integral part of the local economy.”
The summit has been developed in partnership with Peter Davies, Commissioner for Sustainable Futures, who chaired the meeting, and the National Botanic Garden of Wales.