Support for Welsh farmers converting to organic has officially revived this week under a new Sustainable Agricultural Scheme (SFS).
For the first time since 2022, farmers are now able to apply for financial assistance to commence a two-year transition process to organic methods, following the announcement of the Welsh government’s SFS.
The move has been welcomed by organic campaigners as a boost to natural-friendly agriculture and household food security.
Support for farmers who are already organically active came back in 2024 after pressure from the Organic Forum in Welsh.
However, up until now, new entrants have not received support for organic production.
SFS, which is set to be released fully in 2026, includes an “optional layer” of action, with an organic transformation between them.
Conversion periods are often the most financially challenging stage for farmers. Because they still can’t sell produce as organic and have to follow organic standards.
The scheme will provide a range of payment rates available depending on the type of farm, offering up to £500 a year to cover authentication costs during the transition.
Haydn Evans, the Soil Association’s Agricultural Director and Chair of the Organic Forum in Wales, praised the development.
He states:
“This welcome commitment reflects decades of government investment in healthy soils, natural rich farms and pioneering food businesses through organic support.
“It also provides all farmers across Wales with the necessary sense of security and clarity for all farmers who can aim to invest in farm sustainability with more confidence.
“The organic market has seen growth over a decade, but for a long time we have seen this demand primarily meet imports.
The application window for organic conversion begins today and ends on September 12th. The application can be done online from the Welsh government website.
This support is part of a broader overhaul of Welsh farm funding. SFS will replace the Basic Payment Scheme (BPS) that has been phased out by 2028.
