Sponsored: With protected regional specialities, award-winning producers and a growing global following, Wales is making its mark as a destination for quality produce
Carved by ancient cliffs, wind-brushed coastlines and valleys steeped in legend, Wales is a country where nature sets the pace. It’s also a place where food and drink have evolved into something exceptional, bringing together a time-honoured craft and contemporary innovation, rooted in provenance.
As St David’s Day approaches on 1 March, families across Wales will mark the occasion with familiar comforts – warm Welsh cakes, bowls of nourishing cawl and thick slices of buttery bara brith. The celebrations no longer stop at the Welsh border as Welsh produce is now favoured by chefs, retailers and food lovers across the Middle East, where demand continues to grow for premium, sustainable and award-winning food and drink.
From GI-protected specialities and Great Taste Awards 2025 winners to an expanding presence on Middle Eastern shelves, Wales proves that great things really do come from small places.
Crafted by landscape
From the salty air rolling in from Cardigan Bay to the mineral-rich soils of Pembrokeshire and the windswept hills of Snowdonia, food producers across Wales share a deep connection with their surroundings. This affinity between land, climate and craft is what gives Welsh food and drink its distinctive sense of place. It is also reflected in their growing portfolio of Geographical Indication (GI) products. Today, Wales is home to 24 officially protected products, a remarkable endorsement of the country’s heritage, integrity and craftsmanship.
In 2025, four new Welsh products have gained GI status – Pembrokeshire Native Oysters PGI, Pembrokeshire Rock Oysters PGI, Dovey Native Botanical Gin PGI and Welsh Heather Honey PGI. Together, they reinforce Wales’ reputation as a producer of high-quality, geographically distinctive food and drink.
Additionally, Welsh producers enjoyed a standout year at the Great Taste Awards 2025, securing an impressive 146 awards, including 98 one-star, 40 two-star and eight three-star accolades. From artisan cheeses and handcrafted drinks to sweet treats and organic dairy, the results highlighted a shared commitment to quality. For Middle Eastern consumers and retailers, this brings assurance as well as inspiration. The next time you’re choosing a centrepiece cheese, exploring a craft spirit, or adding a new store-cupboard staple to your pantry, Welsh products deliver both reliability and excitement.
Made in Wales
With demand rising, an extensive range of Welsh food and drink is now available across the Middle East. These are just some of the brands bringing the taste of Wales to the region — and well worth seeking out.
Naturally raised on Welsh grasslands PGI Welsh Lamb is renowned worldwide for its tenderness and delicate sweetness. Welsh farmers have long understood the value of patience, pasture and pride, making this protein a natural choice for premium dining, family feasts and seasonal celebrations. Edwards of Conwy represents craft butchery at its finest, producing high-quality speciality meats that balance traditional skill with consistency. For lobster, crab and shellfish harvested from pristine island waters, The Lobster Pot (Anglesey) delivers clean, fresh flavours of the Welsh coastline to Middle Eastern seafood counters.
Dairy Stars
The rolling pastures of Wales combined with clean air provide ideal conditions for dairy farming. From artisan creameries to organic co-operatives, Welsh dairy producers focus on care and quality. A growing selection is now available across the Middle East, including brands such as Golden Hooves, Snowdonia Cheese Company, Calon Wen, Caws Cenarth and Dragon cheeses. Other award-winning dairy products include yoghurts from Rachel’s Organic and Llaeth y Llan.
Sweet and Savoury
Wales’ baking traditions are rooted in warmth, generosity and home comfort, which continue to shine through today’s producers. Lovemore Gluten Free Biscuits offers gluten-free biscuits that deliver indulgence without compromise. While the much-loved Tregroes Waffles are chewy and filled with caramel, bringing a Welsh treat to Middle Eastern coffee tables. The Village Bakery stars a range of popular Welsh cakes, crumpets and artisanal bakes, adding a touch of homely charm to everyday moments.
For natural sweetness, Hilltop Honey produces raw and monofloral honeys sourced from Wales’ varied landscapes, each delicately balanced and golden in colour. Meanwhile, Radnor Preserves infuses bright flavours to breakfasts and cheeseboards with innovative jams, marmalades and small-batch chutneys. If savoury is more your style, Cradoc’s Savoury Biscuits offer vegetable-based crackers, ideal for pairing with artisan cheeses or as part of sharing platters.
Welsh produce carries a story in every bite and sip. With so many exceptional products now available across the Middle East, it’s the perfect time to discover and indulge in the flavours of Wales.
For more information on Welsh food and drink, visit gov.wales/foodanddrinkwales.