Welsh Manufacturing Calls on Next Government to Back the Makers
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Wales is approaching a defining moment. On 7th May 2026, voters will elect a new Senedd, one that will shape decisions on the economy, skills, infrastructure and innovation for years to come. With a new voting system and an expanded parliament, the stakes for the nation’s future have never been higher.
This is a turning point for Welsh manufacturing. With the right backing, the sector can power the next industrial revolution – driving jobs, innovation and sustainable growth across the country. But without urgent action, Wales risks falling behind.
The message to the next Welsh Government is clear: match our ambition and back our makers.
A Sector That Delivers
Manufacturing is one of Wales’ greatest strengths:
- Contributes £12 billion annually (15.6% of output—the highest in the UK)
- Employs 138,000 skilled people
- Pays around 8% above the economy-wide average
- Plays a vital role in aerospace, defence and emerging AI industries
From Anglesey to Cardiff, manufacturers are powering communities, driving investment and shaping the future economy.
What’s Holding Wales Back?
Despite its strengths, the sector faces long-standing barriers:
- Critical skills shortages
- Underperforming transport infrastructure
- Slow and complex planning systems
- Gaps in innovation and digital investment
Without change, these challenges will continue to limit growth and global competitiveness.
5 Priorities for Growth
1. Align Industrial Strategy– Ensure Welsh and UK strategies work together to drive long-term growth, with regular review and clear accountability.
2. Fix the Skills System– Reinvest apprenticeship levy funding raised in Wales into Welsh training programmes to address critical skills gaps.
3. Invest in Infrastructure– Unlock productivity with better transport links and delivery of major projects to improve connectivity.
4. Planning Reform– Streamline planning processes to remove delays and enable faster business expansion.
5. Accelerate Innovation– Support AI, digital adoption and advanced manufacturing through targeted incentives and support for industrial clusters.
Ready to Lead
Welsh manufacturers are already tackling global challenges, from strengthening supply chains to leading the transition to net zero.
They are ready to go further. Now they need a government ready to act.
With the right decisions, Wales can become one of the most dynamic and innovative manufacturing economies in the world. Back the makers and Wales will thrive.
The Maker’s Manifesto is available to download here.
