As we start a new year, the food and drink industry in Wales continues to face huge pressures and challenges, but also, we should also remember that there will inevitably be opportunities, as distant as that may seem at this present time.   We understand that the restrictions necessary to manage the latest wave of coronavirus pandemic have the biggest impact on those food and drink businesses supplying hospitality, and we are continuing to press for support packages for those businesses most affected with Government colleagues.

The UK has now left the EU and there will be impacts for food and drink producers in Wales. Key considerations are those exporting to Europe and Northern Ireland, as well as importing. Ensuring your business has mapped out the changes and accountabilities in these areas, and having access to the latest information from Government, will mean food and drink businesses are less likely to experience delays and difficulties. In many respects, it is a learning journey for all of us.

The Food and Drink Wales Industry Board is here to help by understanding what you, our colleagues in the industry, need most at this present time whether that be information, guidance or advice as well as acting as your link to government. Food and drink businesses can also access tailor-made self-assessment and advice about the impact of leaving the EU. To request a diagnostic by the Cywain project, email: cywain@menterabusnes.co.uk

Although an initial trade deal with the UK and EU has been agreed, we are just at the start of the negotiation of longer trade deals outside the EU. As I have said before, we need to be clear as an industry on what we want out of those negotiations and work together to make our voice heard. This is where we have an opportunity – our food and drink industry is outstanding and can compete on a world stage if we think smart and remain agile.

If you would like to get in touch with me directly about the issues your business or sector is facing, please email Chair.FDWIB@gov.wales

Andy Richardson, Chair of the Food and Drink Wales Industry Board

Latest on Covid-19 and EU transition for food and drink businesses

• Chancellor announces additional lockdown support for businesses

• The Expression of Interest for the Rural Business Investment Scheme - FOOD will open on 18 February 2021

• Source critical food supply chain workers using the newly launched Association of Labour Providers

• Check your business is approved to export to the EU

• Register your food manufacturing business for coronavirus testing – Contact Angela Coleshill to get involved

• Check duties and customs procedures for exporting goods

• Check for barriers to trading and investing abroad

• Defra digital UK Transition guides for food and drink businesses

• Defra EU Rules of Origin Business Guidance

• Claiming preferential rates of duty between the UK and EU from 1 January

• New UK Geographical Indication (GI) Schemes

• Meet ZERO2FIVE Food Industry Centre Online

• Free Online Training with BioInnovation Wales

• Welsh Government’s Retail Market Intelligence Webinars

• £180m fund for hospitality, leisure and tourism businesses

Latest industry news

• Voice of Welsh food and drink producers must be heard in post-Brexit trade deals

• Could whisky made in Wales get its own protected status?

• Margaret Ogunbanwo talks about her experience and plans for her business in 2021

• Four key impacts of the Brexit deal on UK food and drink

• The most delicious vegan treats you can get in Wales for Veganuary

• James Martin and Stephen Terry cook with Welsh lamb in ITV show

Recent key actions from the Board

• The Board held a strategy and planning meeting for 2021 and beyond as well as discussions surrounding the Board’s role in continuing to support the Welsh Food and Drink industry to grow.

• A meeting was held on the EU–UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement to understand the important issues for our industry and what actions the Board and Welsh Government should be taking. We are using this information to lobby for action in Westminster for non-devolved issues and for Wales to have a voice across the UK.

• The Board also held a session on upcoming and ongoing trade negotiations between the UK and the rest of the world and the impact and opportunities for Wales.

• The Board shares all links to information, support and toolkits via Twitter and LinkedIn.

Stay connected for updates on Twitter and LinkedIn. Join our Facebook Group to collaborate workforce. Get in touch with us via email at Chair.FDWIB@gov.wales