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The strategy focuses on connecting Welsh producers with consumers, supporting community-led food projects and ensuring healthier food is accessible to all.

The Welsh Government is committing over £2 million in 2025-26, with funding secured through to March 2028, to support local food initiatives. The strategy aims to increase public sector spending on Welsh food and suppliers by at least 50% by 2030, creating new market opportunities for local producers.

Andrew Tuddenham, head of policy at Soil Association, said: “There is an urgent need for the Welsh Government to use this strategy to help build a food system that prioritises healthy, nature-friendly and home-grown foods. And with this they have an opportunity to show true leadership with the food system in Wales – an approach which other Governments can learn from.  

“The Soil Association urges the Government to act quickly within this Senedd term. Key priorities should include delivering planning guidance to support new horticultural growers, and expanding the provision of nutritious school meals through a whole-school approach, drawing on initiatives like Food for Life and the Welsh Veg in Schools project which is delivering local organic produce to children’s plates.

“Local food production benefits the economy and when prioritised towards minimally processed or wholefoods it also helps people avoid ultra-processed foods, which are driving a huge health crisis in Wales. Wales has a track record of pioneering efforts to promote healthier, more sustainable diets but more vision and action is needed to shape a food and farming system that delivers good food for all.”