Farmers and Industry Professionals from across West Wales came together at the recent NFU Cymru/NatWest Cymru seminar in Carmarthen.

Held at Canolfan S4C Yr Egin, the seminar focused on the theme of helping businesses sustainably grow in an increasingly volatile world, bringing together leading voices from banking, economics, farm business management and agricultural policy.

Opening the seminar, Dylan Morgan, Head of Policy at NFU Cymru, outlined the significant policy developments facing Welsh agriculture following recent governmental changes and highlighted the challenges and opportunities arising from the ongoing development of the Sustainable Farming Scheme. He stressed the importance of ensuring future agricultural policy delivers both economic sustainability and environmental outcomes for Welsh farm businesses.

Ian Burrow, Head of Agriculture and Renewable Energy at NatWest, highlighted the importance of the bank supporting farm businesses through a period of significant change. He also underscored the importance of food security, animal health, supply chain resilience, innovation and supporting the next generation entering the industry.

Delegates also received an overview of the economic outlook from Philip Bartlett, Senior Economist at NatWest. He outlined ongoing economic pressures facing businesses, including higher borrowing costs, inflationary pressures and challenges within global supply chains. While noting that the Welsh economy has recently returned to growth territory, he warned that rising costs continue to squeeze business margins, with agricultural input costs remaining a particular concern for farming businesses.

A key highlight of the afternoon session was the keynote address from Jonathan Davies, the former Scarlets, Wales and British & Irish Lions rugby star. Drawing on his experiences at the highest level of professional sport, Jonathan shared insights on leadership, resilience, performance under pressure and adapting to change, offering valuable lessons that can be applied both on and off the farm. Delegates also heard from Ann Davies, MP for Caerfyrddin, who provided a political perspective on the challenges and opportunities facing Welsh agriculture.

NFU Cymru President Abi Reader said: "Welsh farming has so much to offer and so much to be proud of. Events such as this provide an important opportunity for farmers to hear from experts, share experiences and discuss the challenges and opportunities ahead.

"The future of our industry will be built on profitable, sustainable businesses. By working collaboratively, embracing innovation and ensuring policies work in practice for farming families, we can create a strong future for Welsh agriculture."

Nathan Davies, Agriculture Relationship Manager, NatWest Cymru, said: "Farming makes a vital contribution to the Welsh economy and to the communities that sustain it. Through our dedicated network of relationship managers, NatWest Cymru works closely with the agricultural sector across the country, helping them navigate change and invest for the future.

"Our partnership with NFU Cymru is about providing practical support, expert insight and opportunities for farmers to come together and discuss the challenges and opportunities facing the sector. Welsh agriculture has a strong future, and we're committed to playing our part in supporting its continued success."