Deputy First Minister unveils £3m support package for Wales’ organic farmers at Winter Fair
Deputy First Minister unveils £3m support package for Wales’ organic farmers at Winter Fair
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Organic farmers across Wales are set to receive a major financial boost, with £3 million in support payments proposed for 2026–27, the Welsh Government has confirmed.
Deputy First Minister Huw Irranca-Davies will announce the indicative funding at the Hybu Cig Cymru reception during this year’s Winter Fair.
The funding will be available to all eligible farmers with organic-certified land and forms part of the government’s wider commitment to backing organic agriculture as Wales prepares to transition to the new Sustainable Farming Scheme (SFS).
Ministers say the continued support reflects the vital role organic farming plays in delivering environmental, economic and social benefits.
The Deputy First Minister, who holds responsibility for Climate Change and Rural Affairs, said: “As we transition to the SFS, I want to let organic farmers know of the ongoing support so that they can make informed business decisions as they plan for next year.
“This announcement confirms our commitment to organic farmers across Wales.”
He added that organic practices deliver “environmental benefits beyond standard sustainable farming”, including reducing reliance on artificial fertilisers and pesticides, improving water quality and building long-term soil health.
During his speech at the Winter Fair, Irranca-Davies will also outline a broader vision for Welsh farming built around sustainable food production, environmental protection and strong rural communities.
Speaking ahead of the event, he said: “My vision is of a successful future for Welsh farming, including producing food sustainably, looking after our environment and underpinning our rural communities.
“With the SFS at the heart of this vision, we are committed to a vibrant and sustainable future for Welsh agriculture.
“I am pleased to say that, after an intense period of collaboration, the SFS will commence on 1 January. We’ve recently finished a run of SFS Roadshows and the feedback has been really positive, with lots of farmers preparing themselves for the start of the Scheme.
“This positivity stems from partnership work with stakeholders who have helped us to refine the Scheme.”
The Deputy First Minister is also expected to address the operational pressures the sector has faced this year. Wales confirmed its first cases of Bluetongue in 2025, prompting an all-Wales Restricted Zone earlier this month.
He urged farmers to discuss vaccination options with vets ahead of spring 2026, and highlighted the renewed threat of avian influenza, with mandatory bird housing reintroduced on 13 November.
Irranca-Davies added: “This year has, of course, had its challenges. In October, the first 2025 cases of Bluetongue were confirmed in Wales.
“I appreciate the restrictions have been disruptive and, following feedback and based on new evidence, I announced an all-Wales Restricted Zone which commenced earlier this month.
“Our focus now is to encourage discussion with vets about Bluetongue vaccination before spring 2026.
“Avian influenza presents another current threat and, due to the heightened risk levels, mandatory bird housing measures were introduced on 13 November across Wales.
“I’d like to thank all sectors for their continued cooperation during these challenging times.
“I hope that throughout 2026 and beyond we continue to work collaboratively together to maintain a robust and successful agriculture and food industry in Wales.”
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