The Welsh Government has today published the final version of the Sustainable Farming Scheme (SFS), which the Farmers’ Union of Wales says marks a generational milestone for Welsh agriculture.
This Scheme will be the primary mechanism through which farm businesses in Wales will be able to apply for farm support from 2026 onwards as the Basic Payment Scheme (BPS) is phased out over the coming years.
Building on the revised SFS framework published in November last year, the Scheme is structured around the principle of Universal, Optional and Collaborative layers, providing both a level of universal consistency for all farm businesses and an opportunity to do more if they wish.
Speaking in response to the publication, FUW President Ian Rickman has commented: “Since the initial Brexit and Our Land consultation in 2018, the FUW, its officials and staff have invested a remarkable amount of resources into lobbying, negotiating and challenging the Welsh Government in order to try and secure a workable Scheme for the future of our thriving, sustainable family farms and food production across Wales.
"During the past year alone, we have attended in excess of 60 meetings with the Welsh Government totalling over 300 hours of negotiations. I can assure FUW members and the wider agricultural community that we have left no stone unturned over the past seven years in our ambition to secure a viable post-Brexit farm support framework.
"The Scheme published today represents this prolonged period of negotiation, marking a generational milestone for the future of Welsh agriculture.”
The document sets out the payment rates for 2026 and exactly what farmers will be required to do and the evidence they will be required to provide and/or retain if you choose to enter the Scheme in the future.
“To highlight some of the key successes, we have secured a total budget for the Universal Baseline Payment and BPS taper combined of £238 million, providing workable payment rates and much needed stability for the sector. This includes the provision of universal payments for common land rights holders.
"We have retained and strengthened the application of capped and redistributive payments, a longstanding policy position for the FUW and one that maximises the amount of money going to typical Welsh family farms and rural communities.
"We have also reduced the number of Universal Actions from 17 to 12 with added flexibility and simplification, including exemptions for tenants and the removal of the unworkable 10% tree cover Scheme Rule.
"However, we accept that the Scheme is not perfect. The 10% habitat Scheme Rule will be a concern for many as will the management requirements that will apply on those areas despite these being less prescriptive than previous agri-environment schemes.
"We also appreciate there will be concerns raised around the Scheme-level ambition to plant 17,000 hectares of trees by 2030, the potential year-to-year fluidity of the payment rates and the shorter BPS transition, which will now fall to 60% in 2026 and reduce by 20% per year thereafter. We have been consistent in our calls for the BPS transition to follow five equal reductions starting at 80% in 2026 as was initially proposed by the Welsh Government.
"FUW members can be assured that the Union made its position absolutely clear on these areas throughout the negotiations. I am confident that the Union has done everything in its power to represent you and your businesses throughout this process.
"This Scheme will be different to what we have historically considered as direct farm support or subsidies. I therefore urge all Welsh farmers to consider the Scheme requirements and payment rates in the context of your own businesses.”
Whether farmers decide to enter the SFS at any point in the future, or continue with the tapering BPS and operate without farm support thereafter, the FUW is here to support you and your businesses throughout the transition period and beyond.
"Despite this important milestone, we will continue to represent your voice as FUW members as the technical guidelines are finalised and the Scheme is tweaked in response to feedback from participating farmers. Your continued feedback and practical input will therefore play an essential role for future Scheme development.”
Rydym yn edrych ymlaen at eich croesawu i Sioe Frenhinol Cymru rhwng Gorffennaf 21-24. Isod mae blas o'r digwyddiadau ym mhafiliwn Undeb Amaethwyr Cymru ar Faes y Sioe yn ystod yr wythnos.
We're looking forward to welcoming you to the Royal Welsh Show between July 21-24. Below is a taster of our events at the FUW pavilion on the Showground during the week.
A full timeline of FUW events and discussions throughout the Royal Welsh can be found here.
DYDD LLUN / MONDAY
Gyda'r diwydiant yn aros yn eiddgar am y Cynllun Ffermio Cynaliadwy terfynol, dewch i ymuno â ni i glywed ymateb ac ymrwymiad Undeb Amaethwyr Cymru i wella dyluniad y Cynllun dros y misoedd diwethaf, a gofynnwch eich cwestiynau'n uniongyrchol i Lywodraeth Cymru ar ddyluniad y Cynllun.
With the industry waiting in anticipation for the final Sustainable Farming Scheme, come and join us to hear the FUW's reaction and determination to improve the Scheme design over recent months, and ask your questions directly to the Welsh Government on the Scheme design.
DYDD MAWRTH / TUESDAY
Sut allwn ni gynyddu'r cyfleoedd i ffermwyr ifanc a'r rhai sy'n newydd i'r diwydiant yng Nghymru? Ymunwch â Undeb Amaethwyr Cymru ar gyfer lansiad ein ‘Mandad i ffermwyr y dyfodol’ – gyda gofynion allweddol i Lywodraeth Cymru a'r DU, yn ogystal â'r gymuned ffermio ehangach. Bydd croeso i ffermwyr ifanc gweithgar, newydd-ddyfodiaid ac aelodau Undeb Amaethwyr Cymru am ddiodydd a bwffe ar y balconi yn dilyn y sesiwn. Cadarnhewch eich presenoldeb ar gyfer bwffe ar y balconi.
How can we increase the opportunities for young farmers and new entrants in Wales? Join the FUW as we launch our 'Mandate for More Farmers’ - with key asks of the Welsh and UK Governments, as well as the wider farming community. Hard working young farmers, new entrants and FUW members are welcome for drinks and a buffet on the balcony following the session. Please confirm your attendance for the balcony buffet.
DYDD MERCHER / WEDNESDAY
Bydd y sesiwn yn cyflwyno cynllun amaeth-amgylchedd newydd Llywodraeth Cymru, Ffermio Bro, gyda thrafodaeth ar sut y gall gefnogi ffermwyr a natur mewn Parciau Cenedlaethol a Thirweddau Cenedlaethol yng Nghymru.
The session will introduce the Welsh Government’s new Ffermio Bro agri-environment scheme, with a discussion on how it can support farmers and nature in National Parks and National Landscapes in Wales.
Ymunwch gyda ni am drafodaeth banel arbennig yng nghwmni sawl wyneb cyfarwydd i ddathlu saith degawd o Undeb Amaethwyr Cymru. Dan gadeiryddiaeth y darlledwr Dei Tomos, bydd yn gyfle i adlewyrchu ar y degawdau diwethaf, ac edrych ymlaen at y dyfodol.
Join us for a special panel discussion, bringing together a range of familiar faces to celebrate seven decades of the Farmers' Union of Wales. Chaired by broadcaster Dei Tomos, this event will provide a unique opportunity to reflect on our rich history and look ahead to the future.
The Farmers Union of Wales (FUW) is supporting the #DoNotWaitVaccinate campaign, encouraging farmers to talk to their vets about vaccinating their livestock against Bluetounge virus.
The campaign is led by the Wales Animal Health and Welfare Framework Group, including the Wales Veterinary Science Centre (WVSC) and Iechyd Da, and aims to encourage and educate farmers about vaccinating their livestock.
Bluetounge
Bluetongue virus (BTV) is a potentially fatal infectious, yet non-contagious, disease that is spread by midges. It affects wild and domestic ruminants such as sheep, goats and cattle. The virus does not infect humans and there is no risk to public health or food safety.
Since 1 July 2025, the Welsh Government has introduced limits on moving livestock from England into Wales in response to the spread of the bluetongue virus.
Livestock keepers should contact your local Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) office immediately on 0300 303 8268 if you suspect Bluetongue.
Vaccination
As there is no treatment for the disease, BTV-3 continues to pose a significant threat to both cattle and sheep with potential impacts on animal health, productivity, and trade. Therefore one of the tools in the box that can be utilised in slowing the spread of disease is vaccination.
#DoNotWaitVaccinate
As part of the #DoNotWaitVaccinate campaign, the Farmers’ Union of Wales is encouraging livestock keepers to discuss the merits of vaccination of their animals with their private vet.
One farmer who has decided to vaccinate his livestock is dairy farmer Michael Williams from Pembrokeshire. Commenting he said:
“I’ve made the decision to vaccinate because animal welfare is a top priority for us at our farm. When a new threat approaches, we must act responsibly for the benefit of all and use whatever tools are available".
Meanwhile, FUW Gwent Vice-Chair, Verity Vater, a sheep farmer near the England and Wales border, added:
"As soon as my local vets sent out their email to say that the Bluetongue vaccine was available, I was straight on the phone to them to discuss vaccination.
We have great livestock in Wales and vaccination is a way we can all look to protect them from Bluetongue."
For more information about Bluetounge, contact your local vet or visit the Welsh Government website.
The Farmers’ Union of Wales (FUW) has welcomed a new three-year Wales Rural Crime Strategy following its launch in Cardiff today by the Welsh Government.
The Wales Rural Crime Strategy (2025-2028) has been launched to enhance protection for rural communities and wildlife across Wales.
Announced at the Wales Wildlife & Rural Crime Conference, attended by nearly 100 delegates, the strategy continues the collaboration between Welsh police forces and the Welsh Government following the previous launch of the initial strategy in 2023.
Deputy First Minister Huw Irranca-Davies highlighted the national and international significance of rural crime, including its links to organised crime, and emphasised the crucial role of multi-partner collaboration.
The new strategy outlines six priority areas: Bird Crime, Farm Crime, Habitats, Heritage Crime, Mammals and European Protected Species, and Networking Rural Support Services - the latter uniquely addressing mental health vulnerabilities in rural communities.
The Welsh Government also committed to funding the Wales Wildlife and Rural Crime Coordinator position for a further three years, recognising the pivotal role this position plays in coordinating efforts across the country.
Additionally, Gwent Police announced plans to expand its rural crime team, strengthening enforcement capabilities and providing enhanced support to farming communities and wildlife protection across the region.
Commenting following the launch of the Wales Rural Crime Strategy, FUW Policy Officer, Gemma Haines said:
“Rural crime continues to inflict significant emotional and economic damage on Welsh farmers.
The FUW therefore welcomes the new Rural Crime Strategy, particularly the commitment that Farm Crime will be a priority area of focus over the next three years.
Our members have long advocated for an increased emphasis and resources from Welsh police forces to combat these issues, and we are hopeful that this strategy will serve as a vital catalyst for action.
"The expansion of the Gwent Police Rural Crime team is a particularly encouraging development, and we continue to urge Welsh Police forces to ensure adequate resources and support mechanisms are dedicated to tackling crime in our rural communities.
We also welcome the Welsh Government’s commitment to funding the Wales Wildlife & Rural Crime Coordinator position for a further three years, and look forward to continuing our close collaboration to address the scourge of rural crime."
More details about the launch of the Rural Crime Strategy can be found on the Welsh Government’s website.
The Farmers' Union of Wales (FUW) is set to mark a significant milestone at the 2025 Royal Welsh Show, opening its pavilion doors to celebrate 70 years since its establishment.
As the flagship agricultural event opens its gates in Llanelwedd from July 21st to the 24th, the FUW will reflect on its proud history of championing Welsh family farms while firmly setting its sights on the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for Welsh agriculture.
Foundation
Established in 1955, the FUW was born from a belief that the distinct interests of Welsh farmers required an independent and dedicated voice. For seven decades, the Union has since stood as a steadfast advocate, securing formal government recognition in 1978 and consistently working to ensure the economic viability and sustainability of family farms across Wales.
Today, the FUW's founding principles of thriving, sustainable family farms continue at the heart of the Union’s work, as we represent and support thousands of members across Wales.
As part of the celebrations, a special panel discussion will be held at the FUW pavilion on Wednesday 23 July 2025 at 11:00. Chaired by renowned broadcaster Dei Tomos, the panel will bring together a range of familiar faces to reflect on seven decades of the FUW. The event will discuss the changes and challenges over the years, and address the evolving landscape facing the future of Welsh agriculture.
Tickets will also be on sale for the FUW’s special birthday raffle, with a chance to win a Honda TRX420 FE1 (Electric Shift) ATV and safety helmet worth in excess of £10,000. Tickets are available for the bargain price of £5 each and will be on sale at the FUW pavilion throughout the week, and can also be purchased online. Profits for the raffle will go towards the Wales Air Ambulance.
Future
As well as an opportunity to reflect on the Union’s history, the Show also offers a crucial opportunity to look forward, with a particular focus on future farm funding frameworks, and what work can be done to incentivise and support the next generation of farmers.
With the industry waiting in anticipation for the final Sustainable Farming Scheme (SFS), a question and answer session at the FUW pavilion on Monday morning at 11:00 will provide an opportunity to hear the FUW's reaction and our efforts to improve the Scheme design over recent months. Chaired by Farmers Weekly reporter, Anne Dunn, FUW Head of Policy, Gareth Parry, will be joined by Welsh Government’s Mark Alexander, providing an opportunity for members and the public to ask questions on the Scheme design and expectations.
Wednesday morning will also provide insight on future farm funding, with the FUW hosting a discussion focused on the Welsh Government’s new Ffermio Bro agri-environment scheme, with a discussion on how it can support farmers and nature in National Parks and Designated Landscapes in Wales. Representatives from the FUW, Ffermio Bro team and Pembrokeshire Coast National Park will be present at the discussion at 9:30am at the FUW pavilion on Wednesday morning.
Looking towards the future, Tuesday will see the FUW launch their policy report ‘A Mandate for Future Farmers’, outlining the Union’s vision to increase the opportunities for young farmers and new entrants in Wales. The document will outline key asks of both the Welsh and UK governments, as well as the wider farming community, to nurture the next generation of farmers. Held at the FUW pavilion on Tuesday morning at 11:15, the launch will provide an opportunity for an array of young farmers and new entrants to share their own experiences, as well as insight from representatives from Wales’ Young Farmers Clubs and Farming Connect.
Commenting ahead of the Royal Welsh Show, FUW President Ian Rickman said:
“The Royal Welsh Show is the highlight of Wales’ agricultural calendar. I cannot wait to be in Llanelwedd once again this year, catching up with members, engaging with politicians and stakeholders, and having an opportunity to partake in discussions focusing on the changes and challenges facing Welsh agriculture.
“With the FUW celebrating our 70th birthday, this year’s Show offers a unique opportunity to look both backwards and forwards - commemorating our foundation with events focused on the future of Welsh farming.
"You'll find a warm welcome at the FUW pavilion throughout the week. We're eager to speak with everyone as we celebrate our achievements of standing strong for family farms over the past seven decades, and cast our eyes forward to the next 70 years of Welsh agriculture."
Beyond the exciting events and celebrations, the FUW pavilion will be a hub of activity all week. Members and the public alike can stop by for tea, coffee, and refreshments.
Embracing a family-friendly approach, the FUW is also looking forward to selling milkshakes in the Lle Llaeth, meanwhile a ‘name the cow’ competition, a cow milking competition and a virtual reality ATV experience are sure to provide entertainment for all the family. For those who enjoy live music, the popular Welsh language group Bwncath will be returning to the pavilion for a gig on Tuesday night. Tickets are available online here.
A full timeline of FUW events and discussions throughout the Royal Welsh can be found here.
