HCC chair looks ahead to future challenges
Hybu Cig Cymru – Meat Promotion Wales has recently appointed a new chair, Kevin Roberts who has stated that he is up for the challenge that comes with the position.
Following his appointment as permanent chairman of HCC, Roberts has outlined the crucial role of the red meat levy body in the changing times facing the agricultural industry over the next few year.
Kevin Roberts.
In his first speech to the industry as HCC’s chairman, Roberts is expected to hail the success of the Welsh red meat, but caution that “unfettered access to markets is crucial for the industry’s future”.
Addressing the Cabinet Secretary, Lesley Griffiths AM, and industry leaders at the Royal Welsh Show, Roberts will highlight HCC’s “notable success in developing business in existing and emerging markets across the globe” and will refer to new overseas business recently won by Welsh processors working with HCC in Spain, Canada and Switzerland.
However, he is expected to emphasise that “a third of Welsh lamb goes to our existing mature markets in the EU” and warn: “No amount of home market work can make up for a sudden loss of European exports if that’s what happens in two years’ time.
“We have an outstanding product, and stand ready to work with our partners in Governments to secure unfettered access to markets in Europe and further afield.”
Roberts is a former director general at both the National Farmers Union and the Meat and Livestock Commission but with the new position is determined to push ahead with the work of developing strategic plans for a post-Brexit future for Welsh lamb, beef and pork.
Speaking of the appointment, Roberts commented: “I’m delighted to have been appointed to lead HCC through a period when the organisation’s work in developing markets for our produce and ensuring the industry is fit for the future is more acutely needed than ever.”
He also stated that around a third of Welsh lamb is exported to the EU every year therefore Brexit means that this is an uncertain time.
Roberts said: “This period of change is a chance to come together as an industry to find distinctive Welsh solutions to ensure that agriculture is profitable and resilient, and HCC has a vital role in developing our existing markets at home and abroad, as well as working with partners in Government to gain access to new countries.
“Exports are vital to the profitability of our whole industry, and our PGI Welsh Lamb and PGI Welsh Beef brands are recognised throughout the world as marks of quality.
“HCC’s work in the UK market, in education and public procurement, as well as its role in helping to drive industry profitability, is also crucial.”
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