A pivotal time for rural Wales: have your say at the Rural Business Conference Cymru
Don’t miss out on the inaugural conference for the rural economy in Wales, hosted by CLA Cymru on Thursday 5 March at the ICC Wales in Newport
The Rural Business Conference Cymru, held at the ICC Wales in Newport on Thursday 5 March, offers the chance for farmers, rural entrepreneurs, policymakers and supply chain partners to get together and discuss the key issues and opportunities facing the rural economy in Wales.
The conference is a vital platform for all, whether CLA member or non-member, and launches for the first time in 2026 to help shape and champion rural Wales ahead of the Senedd elections.
The Senedd elections take place shortly after the event, and CLA Cymru – the voice of rural business across Wales – believes the conference will serve as a practical forum for engagement with politicians, ensuring the needs of the rural economy are clearly understood by any future decision makers.
Guest speakers confirmed for the event:
- Helen Nelson, Director of Strategic Planning, Climate & Nature, Future Generations Commission
- Ian Williams, Deputy Director, Tourism Development, Welsh Government
- Rowland Rees Evans, Chair, Wales Tourism Alliance
- Geraint Thomas, Founder, Moody Meadows
- Francesca Pridding, Estate Manager, Bodorgan Estate
- Catherine Smith, Chair, Hybu Cig Cymru
- William Watkins, CEO of Radnor Hills
- Edward Morgan, ESG Manager, Castell Howell Foods
- Huw Thomas, Managing Director, Puffin Produce
CLA Cymru staff will also be at the event to help answer any questions you might have.
CLA Cymru Director, Victoria Bond said, “Wales’s rural economy is dynamic, innovative, and vital to the nation’s prosperity - encompassing farming, food production, environmental stewardship, tourism, housing delivery, and access to digital connectivity and energy.”
This conference provides a vital forum to unlock potential, bringing people together to share what works, identify barriers, and shape practical solutions at a pivotal moment for Wales
Why this conference matters for Wales right now
- A timely forum ahead of the Senedd election: the event will enable measured, informed dialogue that reflects the realities of rural land management and business in Wales. Understanding what works on the ground - to help shape the priorities of the next Welsh Government.
- A whole economy perspective: rural Wales underpins food, energy, nature recovery, cultural heritage, and tourism, sectors that require a strategic approach and joined up thinking across policy, planning, infrastructure and skills, to enable success.
- Growth through transition: As businesses adapt to climate goals, biodiversity targets, and shifting consumer demands, the conference focuses on pathways that deliver economic viability, environmental outcomes, and social value.