CLA Cymru Welcomes Funding Certainty for Welsh Farmers but Stresses Need for Practical Delivery
CLA Cymru has welcomed the Welsh Government’s announcement of over £1b in multi-year funding for the Sustainable Farming Scheme (SFS), which provides much-needed stability for farming businesses right across Wales.
The commitment of £340m per year for three years to March 2030, including a guaranteed £238m for the Universal Layer, marks a significant shift from the previous short-term, year-to-year funding model. This will allow farmers and landowners to plan and invest with greater confidence.
We are pleased that the Welsh Government has listened to the sector and delivered on its pledge for multi-annual funding. Certainty is essential for farmers and rural businesses that form the backbone of Wales’ countryside. This announcement at the Royal Welsh Show sends a positive signal and we particularly note the early steps to cut red tape following the John Davies review. Simplifying the Animal Health Improvement Cycle and aligning it with existing farm assurance schemes from 2027 is a sensible move that will reduce bureaucracy and ease the burden on farmers. However, success will depend on practical implementation, clear guidance and genuine partnership working with the sector. We will continue to push for further reductions in red tape burdens so that farmers can focus on delivering environmental, social and economic outcomes on the ground.
CLA Cymru also welcomes the planned rollout of Optional Actions and the opening of the new Integrated Natural Resources Scheme window later this year, which will support the Collaborative Layer. The organisation will work closely with its members and the Government to ensure these measures are accessible, proportionate and deliver real benefits for rural Wales.
The family farm is central to rural communities, economies and the management of our landscapes. While today’s funding commitment is welcome, we will keep pressing for a scheme that works in practice, rewards outcomes and supports a thriving and resilient agricultural sector for generations to come.
