NFU Cymru has endorsed calls for a “step change” in Wales’ approach to eradicating bovine TB, saying current policies are not delivering the progress needed to protect farmers and livestock.

The union supported recommendations from the Welsh Government’s TB Eradication Programme Board, which warned that Wales is unlikely to meet its target of being officially TB-free by 2041. The board said a step change in the urgency and resources devoted to eradication is needed, and future policy must consider the disease across cattle, people and wildlife.

NFU Cymru President Abi Reader said: “Whilst it is encouraging that the statistics show the number of new breakdowns has fallen, we cannot lose sight of the number of farms which are operating under TB restrictions, the 12,493 animals slaughtered because of the disease in the year ending September 2025 and the farming families that continue to suffer because of this disease.

“The message from the programme board’s position paper is clear – we are not on track to meet the target set for Wales to be TB free by 2041. For the farmers and their families who are dealing with TB on a daily basis, 2041 feels like a long time away, and the fact the modelling suggests we will not meet this target is further evidence that the current approach is not working.”

The position paper emphasises the need for a science-led, locally tailored approach, calling for better communication with farmers, more data to inform decisions, and further research into the role of wildlife in disease transmission. It also stresses that TB eradication requires partnership across farmers, vets, industry, and government, and that governance must remain independent to ensure evidence-based policy.

The Welsh Government said it remains committed to the TB eradication programme, which began in 2008. Deputy First Minister Huw Irranca-Davies said the number of new herd incidents has fallen over the long term, while policy changes such as delayed on-farm slaughter for certain reactor cattle and movement restrictions for inconclusive reactors give farmers greater flexibility and help limit the spread of disease.

He said: “The path to a TB‑free Wales is challenging, ambitious and long-term, but the direction of travel is clear. Wales’ success ultimately depends on partnership: TB eradication cannot be achieved by government alone. It requires engagement from farmers, vets, markets, processors, and rural stakeholders working hand‑in‑hand. Through strategic testing, biosecurity, targeted movement controls, improved governance and strong partnership, we are aligning science, policy, and practice. These foundations will stand us in good stead for a future where Welsh farms are healthier, more resilient, and more secure.”

NFU Cymru has played an active role advising the TB Eradication Programme Board and Technical Advisory Group, supporting policy changes such as delayed slaughter and the management of inconclusive reactors. Ms Reader said the union will continue to engage with all political parties ahead of the Senedd election, adding it was “crucial” that candidates and all political parties fully understand the impact the disease continues to have on rural communities.