The Welsh Liberal Democrats have called for the creation of a dedicated Industrial Strategy for Wales during the next Senedd term as part of a long-term plan to strengthen the nation’s manufacturing base, support skilled jobs and secure the future of Welsh industry.

The proposal was highlighted during a visit by David Chadwick MP to the 7 Steel facility in Cardiff, where he met with workers and industry representatives to discuss the challenges facing Welsh heavy industry and manufacturing.

The party says Wales requires a clear and coordinated strategy to support its industrial sectors, recognising the outsized role they play in the Welsh economy. Heavy industry and manufacturing account for around 15% of the Welsh economy, compared with around 9% across the rest of the UK.

The Welsh Liberal Democrats say a dedicated Welsh industrial strategy would work alongside a UK-wide strategy, ensuring Welsh industries receive the targeted support they need while avoiding duplication.

The call comes at a time of growing concern about the future of Welsh industry according to the Lib Dems, following decades of deindustrialisation and the recent uncertainty surrounding steelmaking at Port Talbot. The party argues that Wales still has a strong industrial base and the potential to lead in areas such as advanced manufacturing, engineering and green energy supply chains, but that this will require deliberate and sustained action from government.

Businesses have repeatedly raised concerns with the Welsh Liberal Democrats about high energy costs, poor transport infrastructure and growing skills shortages, which they warn are holding back investment and growth. The party says any serious industrial strategy must also focus on strengthening apprenticeships and technical training to ensure Welsh businesses have access to the skilled workforce they need.

The Welsh Liberal Democrats have previously called for the Welsh Government to reverse recent cuts to the apprenticeship budget, expand higher and degree apprenticeships in sectors such as engineering, manufacturing and construction, and establish regional engineering and technical skills hubs aligned with local employer demand.

Commenting during his visit, Welsh Liberal Democrat MP David Chadwick said: “Wales has a proud industrial heritage and the skills, expertise and workforce to build a strong manufacturing future. But after decades of deindustrialisation and years of economic drift from the Welsh Labour Government, far too many communities feel their industries have simply been left behind.

“Manufacturing and heavy industry still make up a far larger share of the Welsh economy than they do elsewhere in the UK. That is a strength we should be building on, not something we allow to decline through neglect.

“That’s why the Welsh Liberal Democrats are calling for a dedicated Industrial Strategy for Wales, one that recognises the importance of our industrial sectors, supports innovation and investment, and ensures Welsh businesses can compete and grow.

“After 27 years in power, Welsh Labour has never even attempted to set out a clear strategy to close the wage gap between Wales and England or improve productivity across the Welsh economy.

“The Welsh Liberal Democrats believe economic growth should be at the heart of tackling poverty and creating opportunity. A serious industrial strategy for Wales would be a vital step towards achieving that.”