Welsh farmers have been getting to grips with what Brexit could mean for their businesses and how best to prepare for it in a series of open meetings held across Wales.

Organised by AHDB (Agricultural and Horticultural Development Board) and Hybu Cig Cymru – Meat Promotion Wales (HCC), over 150 farmers heard trade experts outlining potential scenarios for the agricultural industry in Wales post-Brexit.

Held in Clynderwen, Brecon, Abergele and Welshpool at the end of January and beginning of February, the latest analysis and data was explored demonstrating to attendees how various possible trade agreements could affect the sheep, beef, pork, dairy, horticulture and cereal sectors.

In addition to updating attendees on the current Brexit negotiation stages and summarising what various trade scenarios would mean for the industry, AHDB and HCC speakers also held Q&A sessions, whilst Farming Connect were also on-hand during the meetings to showcase the farm support currently being offered by Welsh Government.

John Richards, HCC’s industry development and relations manager said: "The key take-home message for famers from these meetings is to start thinking and preparing now for the future. Though at the moment we are not exactly sure what trade deals and Government support may be put in place, what is certain is that change will happen.

"Using feedback from these four events, AHDB and ourselves will be looking over the coming months at what resources and further analysis we can provide to help farmers prepare."

AHDB’s market intelligence director, Phil Bicknell, commented: "We know that Brexit means uncertainty, but the research and analysis helps us begin to understand what potential changes in farm policy or trade means for different farming sectors. That’s a vital step in helping us to begin to understand what it means for our farm businesses.

"We know that Brexit could mean some challenging decisions for some farm businesses, and it was great to see such an engaged turn out at the meetings."

Anybody who would like to receive a copy of the presentation from the meeting should contact HCC on 01970 525050 or email info@hccmpw.org.uk