A wooden coffin, emblazon with 'in memory of Welsh farming', set the tone at a gathering of 3000 farmers in Carmarthen, marking the second mass protest against Welsh government policies.

High on their grievances is the impending Sustainable Farming Scheme (SFS), set to replace direct farm payments, which farmers fear will render their businesses unsustainable. Adding to their distress are new water quality regulations and a bovine TB eradication policy that prohibits targeted badger culling.

Underscoring the urgency of the situation, farmers gathered with dozens of tractors, enhanced with placards declaring "No Farmers No Food," and converged on Carmarthen's martground.

This demonstration followed a similar protest in Welshpool a week prior, attended by 1000 farmers.

Local farmer and rally chair Wyn Evans encapsulated the increasing emotion among farmers: “We can't endure any more of this, we must make a stand until the Welsh government engages with us.”

In response, a motion was passed for organisers to negotiate directly with the government. Plaid Cymru Member of the Senedd (MS) Llŷr Huws Gruffydd, among other speakers at the event, highlighted the challenges confronting the industry.

Businesses along the supply chain warned of impending major supply shortfalls, predicting that the SFS could result in 122,000 fewer livestock units.

Overseeing livestock procurement at the Kepak processing plant in Merthyr Tydfil, Prys Morgan emphasised the economic impact, stating: “Without those animals, we don’t have a business” one that contributes £200m annually to the Welsh economy.

Farmers like Colin Jones, facing the prospect of reducing livestock numbers to comply with SFS requirements, voiced deep concerns: “It won't be viable to continue farming.” He expressed hope that the protest would encourage the government and Rural Affairs Minister Lesley Griffiths to address industry concerns.

The Welsh government defended the SFS as essential for securing food production, preserving the environment, and addressing the climate and nature emergency. However, with growing discontent, Ms. Griffiths invited the presidents of Wales' two farming unions for an urgent meeting to address farmers' concerns.

NFU Cymru president Aled Jones stressed the anguish felt by farmers, particularly regarding the SFS consultation's proposals. He highlighted the challenges posed by rising agricultural inputs, stringent water quality regulations, and ongoing bovine TB issues, underscoring the need for meaningful solutions.