The Minister for Culture, Skills and Social Partnership, Jack Sargeant MS, officially opened Blas Cymru/Taste Wales 2025 at the International Convention Centre (ICC) in Wales.
The two-day food and drink trade event, held in Newport, brings together more than 150 Welsh food and drink producers and around 300 invited buyers from across the world.
Speaking at the opening, Welsh Government Minister for Culture, Skills and Social Partnership, Jack Sargeant MS said: “Blas Cymru / Taste Wales 2025 is a celebration of the creativity and excellence that define our food and drink sector. This event brings together the best of Welsh producers, showcasing their innovation and ambition to buyers from across the globe.
“As the success of previous events have shown, it’s a launchpad for new partnerships, growth, and global success and I’m sure this year will be no different.”
Attendees can explore more than 200 new product ranges, featured within a broader showcase of more than 3,000 Welsh products, which organisers said would “reflect the sector’s reputation for quality, creativity and commercial impact”. They will also have the opportunity to sample dishes prepared by the Culinary Association of Wales, vote for the most exciting new product and connect with suppliers during dedicated meeting slots and evening networking events.
Food and Drink Wales found that in 2024, the Welsh food and drink sector experienced an expansion from 2023, with turnover increasing by £945 million (10% from £9.3 billion to £10.2 billion). Exports also increased in 2024 compared to 2023, rising from £813 million to £839 million, up by 3% (£26 million).
Also attending the two-day event is the Welsh Government Deputy First Minister and Cabinet Secretary for Climate Change and Rural Affairs, Huw Irranca-Davies, MS, who said: “Blas Cymru/Taste Wales 2025 stands as a testament to the progress and ambition of Wales’ food and drink sector.
“Multi-million-pound investments in innovation and infrastructure are helping our producers expand their reach, boost sustainability, and compete internationally. With 150 suppliers, over 200 new product ranges, and more than 3,000 products on display, this event is a unique opportunity to experience the very best of Welsh food and drink.
“The Welsh Government is proud to support the event, and to help our thriving food and drink sector seize new and exciting opportunities. This is the very best of Wales on the world stage!”
The Welsh Government said it will continue to champion the sector through major international events, including the Blas Cymru / Taste Wales Conference in October 2026, which will showcase the breadth of support available to Welsh food and drink businesses, and the Worldchefs Congress in May 2026, where Wales will be represented on the global culinary stage.
