Tata Steel UK has outlined its key policy asks of the Welsh Government, with the 2026 Senedd elections only months away.
While major policy areas such as trade, energy costs and scrap remain reserved to Westminster, the Welsh Government has significant influence over several areas vital to Wales’ steel industry.
As the UK’s largest steelmaker, Tata Steel is calling for the next Welsh Government to:
- Ensure the industry has access to the skills and talent pipeline it needs for the future.
- Provide sufficient research and innovation funding to support the development and scaling-up of new facilities and technologies.
- Strengthen support for Welsh supply chains through public procurement.
- Address barriers to land development.
- Enhance competitiveness through measures such as business rate relief.
Commenting on Tata Steel UK’s Senedd manifesto, Chief Executive Rajesh Nair said: “Policymakers and industry share the same ambition: a competitive, sustainable UK steel sector.
“With the right policy conditions in place, Tata Steel UK stands ready to invest in people, technology, and innovation, securing long-term prosperity for communities and for Wales.
“A stronger Britain depends on a strong British industrial base, and Wales can be at the heart of that. Success for steel means a sector able to compete, invest and grow on fair terms, sustaining skilled jobs, driving innovation, and anchoring manufacturing across the UK.”
“With a clear policy framework and a shared commitment between industry and the UK and Welsh governments, Wales can rebuild industrial strength, secure regional prosperity and lead in the technologies of modern steelmaking.”
