The Welsh food and drink sector continues to succeed as latest figures show the supply chain turnover increased to £23 billion in 2021.
These figures follow the news from earlier in the year that Welsh food and drink exports hit a record high in 2021, reaching £640 million.
The Welsh government said it will continue to help businesses in the sector through multiple support schemes providing market insight and intelligence, investment, technical support, export support and strong emphasis on business networking.
Rural affairs minister, Lesley Griffiths, said: “These figures demonstrate the commitment and desire of Welsh food and drink businesses to succeed, despite the rough economic situation they face.”
“I am very proud of the resilience and enterprise shown by businesses emerging from the pndemic and overcoming multiple supply chain challenges.”
“Wales’ innovative spirit continues to shine brightly in the sector and the proof is in the pudding with Welsh businesses continuing to pick up awards.”
She said the the support of the Welsh government is playing an important role and will continue to do so as it strives to “help companies reach their full potential”, according to Griffiths.
Boosting trade with the USA
Seven Welsh businesses are set to go to America this week as part of a Welsh government-led trade mission to help boost trade and export links.
The delegation is going to North and South Carolina, where they will meet with businesses and potential new custiomers and partners.
The trip is part of the Welsh government’s commitment to supporting Welsh business to grow in Wales and sell to the world, as part of its Export Action Plan.
The USA is Wales’ top export market for goods, accounting for 15.7% (£2.9 billion) of total goods exports and, over the past year, the value of Welsh goods to the USA increased by 69.6% (£1.2 billion).
The mission is part of a series of activities being delivered by the Welsh Government in the run up to the FIFA World Cup in Qatar, in which Wales’ first match is against the USA.
Wales’ economy minister, Vaughan Gething, said: “The USA is an important market for Wales and I’m pleased the Welsh government can support this delegation of Welsh business talent on our first ever trade visit to the Carolinas.”
“This is an excellent opportunity for our businesses to explore the market and build connections with international partners.”
“The mission, which is part of a wider trade mission programme delivered by the Welsh government shows our determination to back Welsh businesses to grow in Wales, and to sell to the world,” he said.
